Plant-microbe interactions in coastal marshes and swamps

The burgeoning field of microbiome research is showing how many host organisms rely on symbiotic bacteria and fungi to be more stress-resilient. While this research is heavily geared toward medicine and agriculture, there is a gap in knowledge about how plant microbiomes might improve restoration of our sinking coasts and dying swamps. We are seeking a better understanding of the microbiomes for several plant species in coastal marshes and swamps. Our long-term vision is to develop plant inoculants that improve stress resilience and restoration success in the face of rising sea levels, drilling for off-shore oil, and increasing storm frequency.