Feasting on protein? Strategies of organic nitrogen acquisition by plant roots (2005-2007)

The increasing use of nitrogen fertiliser required to intensify crop production has environmental consequences with nitrogen pollution a main threat to ecosystem integrity. Efficient nitrogen acquisition by plant roots is crucial for a sustainable future. Organic nitrogen sources are important forms of soil nitrogen in ecosystems and bioproduction systems but little is known about plant acquisition strategies of this resource. Knowledge will be generated about functional aspects of roots and their gene products that mediate acquisition of organic nitrogen compounds. This research has significant implications for preserving Australia s biodiversity and improving the efficiency of nutrient utilisation of bioproduction systems