Charles Colvin
In the phyllosphere, a microecosystem on plant leaves, diverse microbes impact plant health. Like the root rhizosphere, a healthy phyllospheric community is vital for plant growth. Flavonoids are plant pigments that influence plant-microbe interactions. Maize with increased flavonoids shows altered stress responses and metabolic pathways. This project explores the connection between maize flavonoids and phyllosphere microbes, using sequencing to identify unique associations. Understanding flavonoids roles in these communities informs future development of high-flavonoid maize lines.