Symbiogenics
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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.    

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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.

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Our Objectives

Symbiogenics will conduct basic scientific research on plant-microbe
symbioses to :
  • Generate native and crop plants tolerant to drought, temperature, salt and nutritional stress.
  • Improve plant seed germination, seedling growth and plant fitness.
  • Enhance agricultural production while decreasing water and fertilizer demands.
  • Expand agricultural production into marginal lands.
  • Improve aquatic ecosystem health by decreasing chemical run-off from agriculture.
  • Enhance habitat restoration efforts.
  • Develop new strategies for managing invasive plant species.
  • Disseminate new knowledge about symbiosis for education and outreach.

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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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