This session offers an overview of research programs covering different components of the phytobiome to begin Synchronizing our Scientific Efforts and Partnering for Solutions that will optimize and increase agricultural productivity for sustaining global food security and healthy soils. The phytobiome system encompasses the entire community of living organisms that influence and are influenced by the plant (i.e., bacteria, archaea, fungi, nematodes, oomycetes, viruses, and insects).  Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing, computational biology, and many "omics" technologies are enabling exploration of the composition, function and activities of these communities. Studying the phytobiome as a system can enhance understanding of how the entire community of living organisms influence plant and soil health/functions.

Approved for 3.0 SW CEUs.