Root functional synergistic system: a new theoretical framework for the integrated study of plant root systems

<p indent="0mm">Plants are the cornerstone of maintaining productivity and biodiversity in terrestrial ecosystems. As an organ for resource absorption, roots form the foundation of plant growth and development, with their anatomical structures serving as the vehicles through which the functions of roots are realized. In this paper, we propose a new theoretical framework called the “root functional synergistic system”. Based on the “allometric relationships” between key root anatomical structures (cortex and stele), this framework uses these structural characteristics as the core and integrates the two-dimensional traits of the roots and the symbiotic mycorrhizal fungi to systematically elucidate the interactions and mechanisms between the root-mycorrhizal fungal system in resource absorption. We further expound on the three core elements involved in this theoretical framework: the basic patterns, significance, and mechanisms of root anatomical “allometric relationships”, the fundamental laws and mechanisms underlying the two-dimensionality of root traits, and the interactive relationships and environmental regulation between the two-dimensionality of root traits and mycorrhizal fungi. The “root functional synergistic system” theory is distinguished by the collaborative relationships between different root structures and between roots and mycorrhizal fungi. This new root theory framework provides new insights into the understanding of plant root-cap synergies, helps optimize community species configuration to achieve multifunctional ecosystem goals such as high productivity, high diversity, and high economic value, and offers new ideas for breeding excellent root traits through genetic and molecular means.