Phyllosphere

Phyllosphere

	Phyllosphere The Dutch microbiologist Ruinen coined the term phyllosphere which is the interrelationship between plant foliage and the quality and quantity of microorganisms found on the surface. The leaf surface is termed as phylloplane. The quality and quantity of the microorganisms on the leaf surface differs with age of .the plant, leaf area, morphology, atmospheric factors (temperature, humidity, etc.).
Growing seasons may also influence the phyllosphere microflora. It increases and reaches the maximum in autumn when the leaves severe. The position of the leaves also plays a role in determining the microflora. Leaves at the lower levels harbour more microorganisms since they are sheltered and get more nutrients from the raindrops from upper levels. Plant leaves are exposed to dust and air currents resulting in the establishment of a typical flora on their surface aided by cuticle, waxes and appendages (thorns, spikes) which help in the anchorage of microbes. The leaf diffusates/ exudates promote/ deter the growth of microbes on their surface. The principal nutritive factor in the leaf are amino acids, glucose, fructose and sucrose.
The dominant microorganisms in a forest vegetation are the nitrogen fixing bacteria such as Beijerinckia and Azotobacter. Other genera like Pseudomonas, Enwinia, Sarcina have been encountered in the phyllosphere. Under damp conditions, some leaves may harbour cyanobacteria like Anabaena, Calothrix, Nostoc and Tolypothrix on their surfaces. Some of the fungi and actinomycetes encountered are Cladosporium, Alternaria, Cercospora, Helminthosporium, Mucor and Streptomyces species

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