Spermosphere

The spermosphere is the name given to the area that surrounds a germinating seed in the soil.[1] This is a small area of between 2 and 12 mm that varies with the amount of moisture in the soil.[2] Within the spermosphere a range of complex interactions take place between the germinating seed, the soil and microbiome.[2][1] Although this period of germination is very limited the impact of microbial activity can have strong and long-lasting effects on the developing plant.[2]

Numerous molecules exudate from seeds and influence the microbial communities present, either by inhibition or stimulation of their growth.[1][2] The composition of the exudates varies according to the plant type, and qualities of the soil such as its pH and moisture content. These early activities in the spermosphere establish and develop the rhizosphere. The spermosphere becomes the rhizosphere following the development and emergence of the radicle.[2] The area of soil above the seed, around the growing plant stem is known as the laimosphere.