The tiny drivers behind plant ecology and evolution.

This article discusses the important role that microbes play in plant ecology and evolution. Microbes, which include diverse soil and foliar microbial communities, have a significant impact on various aspects of plant biology. They can influence maternal effects, phenotypic plasticity, and natural selection in plants. Ignoring the presence and effects of microbes can lead to a misunderstanding of plant processes and outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial for plant ecologists and evolutionary biologists to consider the influence of microbial communities in their research to gain a more accurate understanding of plant biology in the natural world. [Extracted from the article]