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The Organization Symbiogenics was established as a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation by scientists with more than 40 years of collective research experience in academics, government and industry. Motivated by global declines in agricultural and natural habitats, and increased frequencies of famine and human disease, the founders sought to develop solutions for a sustainable future based on one of the most fundamental aspects of all plant and animal life on earth - symbiosis. Mission Statement Symbiogenics is dedicated to undertaking research relating to sustainable agriculture, bio-energy crops, invasive species, habitat restoration and climate change. Educational and outreach venues are engaged to disseminate new knowledge for the betterment of humanity. Our Objectives Symbiogenics will conduct basic scientific research on plant-microbe symbioses to :
The Power of Symbiosis This simple time-lapse video shows shoot and root growth of rice seedlings under constant light over an 8 day period. Establishing a root system so they can obtain water and nutrients right away is essential for young plants to thrive. This video clearly shows that symbiotic seedlings have a much quicker growth rate of primary and secondary roots than non-symbiotic seedlings. These initial growth stages are critical to the overall fitness of these plants and their future. During the last century, changes in agricultural practices resulted in the inadvertent loss of symbiotic microorganisms. The loss of symbiotic benefits was partially compensated by the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. It is becoming increasingly clear that such current large-scale practices are not sustainable. It's time we put symbiotic microbes back into agricultural crops and develop farming practices that combine symbiosis with some of the great agricultural advancements of the 20th century. |
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