Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 1 — Meta-analysis / systematic reviewPeer-reviewed

Nutrients in the rhizosphere: A meta-analysis of content, availability, and influencing factors

Shibin Liu, Fakun He, Yakov Kuzyakov, Huxuan Xiao, Duyen Thi Thu Hoang, Shengyan Pu, Bahar S. Razavi

The Science of The Total Environment · 2022

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Summary

This meta-analysis synthesises peer-reviewed literature on nutrient content and availability within the rhizosphere—the soil zone immediately surrounding plant roots. The authors compiled evidence on how root exudates, soil microbial activity, and edaphic factors modulate nutrient mobilisation and accessibility in this critical interface. As suggested by the title and scope, the work aimed to identify consistent patterns and quantify the magnitude of rhizosphere effects on nutrient cycling across diverse agricultural and natural systems.

UK applicability

The findings on rhizosphere nutrient dynamics and influencing factors are broadly applicable to UK soil and crop systems, particularly for understanding how management practices (tillage, organic inputs, cultivar choice) affect nutrient availability in temperate arable and grassland soils. The meta-analytical approach synthesises global evidence, though UK-specific field validation would strengthen practical application in policy and advisory contexts.

Key measures

Nutrient concentrations and availability in rhizosphere soil; factors modifying rhizosphere nutrient status (root exudation, microbial activity, soil properties, plant species, environmental conditions)

Outcomes reported

A meta-analysis synthesising evidence on nutrient content, availability, and mobilisation in the rhizosphere across multiple studies and conditions. The study examined factors influencing nutrient dynamics in the soil zone proximal to plant roots.

Theme
Farming systems, soils & land use
Subject
Soil fertility & nutrient management
Study type
Meta-analysis
Study design
Meta-analysis
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
International
System type
Laboratory / in vitro
DOI
10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153908
Catalogue ID
SNmoppc2pz-jocfpq

Topic tags

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