This collection features four peer-reviewed reviews on phosphorus
uptake and use in crops.
The first chapter summarises the progress in research on root traits
associated with phosphorus acquisition, including root morphology,
architecture, biochemistry, colonisation by arbuscular mycorrhizal
fungi, and fine root endophytes. The chapter also reviews the recent
advances in breeding programmes to improve phosphorus acquisition
efficiency.
The second chapter discusses interactions between phosphorus management
(phosphorus rate, source timing, and placement) and diverse cropping
systems and climate and how these interactions are essential to
efficient utilization of phosphorus resources.
The third chapter assesses the key soil, root and microbial processes
that influence phosphorus acquisition with a focus on factors that can
be managed to ensure optimal use of fertiliser and development of root
systems for improved phosphorus acquisition. A case study from Australia
is used to demonstrate how phosphorus efficiency of grasslands can be
improved.
The final chapter reviews the environmental effects of phosphorus
fertilisation in agriculture, primarily its impact on water quality. The
chapter considers how future water quality issues can be mitigated and
also examines the cycling, fate and transport of phosphorus in
agriculture.