Plant Mucilages

Plants exude a complex matrix of high molecular weight compounds (mucilage) from different organs. Root mucilages secreted into the rhizosphere enhance water and nutrient exchange, protect against pathogens and fungal infection, and modify soil physical and chemical properties. In contrast to other environments, little is known about the root mucilage composition and regulation from Arctic and sub-Arctic plants who survive in low temperatures, acidic soils, and under nutrient limitations. We are interested in characterizing and quantifying native sub-Arctic root mucilage under Arctic environmental conditions along with root phenotypes to identify species-specific characteristics and biogeochemical contributions of ecological relevance in these ecosystems.