Uncovering plant root traits and mechanisms that enable penetration, exploration, and exploitation of soil parent materials: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Certain plant species, including some trees, have been observed growing not only in soil but also in soil parent materials. However, the root traits and mechanisms enabling these species to penetrate soil parent materials are not yet thoroughly understood. This systematic review aims to identify and discuss the root traits and mechanisms that allow plant roots to grow into soil parent materials. It will also draw insights from the characteristics and mechanisms that plants employ to overcome the challenges posed by compacted soils.

Methods

We adhered to the 'Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses' (PRISMA) guidelines for our methodology.

Results

We identified increased root radial pressure, investment in root biomass, fi

SUBMITTER: Chaibva P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12789192 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature