Plant-Environmental Microbiology

By understanding the ecology of Methylobacterium species, which utilize methanol released by plants and dominate on leaves, we will apply their function as growth-promoting bacteria to agriculture. We are also analyzing the rhizosphere microbial community structure in crop ecosystems. On the other hand, we are trying to uncover the mechanism of growth and mortality of red tide algae, which cause damage to fisheries, by focusing on symbiotic bacteria.

• Institute of Plant Science and Resources

	Assoc. Prof. TANI Akio E-mail: atani [at] kayama-u.ac.jp Plant growth promoting bacteria, Methylotrophs, Lanthanides Directory of Researchers 　Link to group homepage

The Symbiotic Microorganisms Team is analyzing the diversity of plant symbiotic bacteria through culture-independent approaches, as well as trying to understand functions and ecology of important symbiotic microorganisms to apply them to agriculture. We are currently focusing on methylotrophic bacteria and novel bacterial species isolated from the barley rhizosphere.

	Assoc. Prof. UEKI Shoko E-mail: shokoueki [at] okayama-u.ac.jp Bloom-forming phytoplankton, marine bacteria Directory of Researchers 　Link to group homepage

The Phytoplankton Team aims to elucidate the ecophysiology of Heterosigma akashiwo, a bloom-forming phytoplankton. We aim to understand the reaction of the alga to external stimuli and nutritional condition, to understand the mechanism of bloom formation at molecular level. Currently, we focus on the symbiotic interaction between the alga and the marine bacteria with unique metabolic pathways.