Deep-Rooted Plants Unveiled as Unsung Heroes in Fight Against Desertification and Climate Change

A new review published in Trends in Plant Science on Oct. 31 highlights deep-rooted plants (DRPs) as essential, yet often overlooked, guardians of the world's arid lands. Led by Prof. Fanjiang Zeng, the study reframes deserts and drylands as active ecological frontiers, with DRPs at the forefront of stabilization and climate mitigation.

"Deep-rooted plants are not just plants; they are ecological engineers," said Dr. Akash Tariq, the study's first author. Species like Alhagi, Tamarix, and Haloxylon act as natural barriers against desertification. By accessing deep groundwater reserves, they stabilize soil, foster the formation of fertile microhabitats, and sustain entire ecosystems even in the most challenging environments.

The review identifies key adaptations of DRPs: fast-growing taproots that penetrate over 60 meters deep, hydraulic lift that redistributes water to surrounding vegetation, and water-conserving leaf structures. These features enable DRPs to flourish in conditions inhospitable to most plants.

The study also highlights the substantial socio-economic value of DRPs. They provide essential livestock forage, enable ecotourism ventures like the "Desert Highway" in the Taklamakan Desert, and have supported human livelihoods for centuries. Initiatives such as Africa's "Great Green Wall" have generated significant revenue by utilizing these species.

Yet, the researchers warn that DRPs face escalating threats from climate change and human impact. Higher temperatures, overgrazing, and above all, excessive groundwater extraction are endangering DRPs, putting both their survival and ecosystem stability at risk.

Groundwater depletion directly threatens these plants, explained Dr. Akash Tariq. When water tables fall below their roots, DRPs lose growth and carbon sequestration capacity, leaving the land more susceptible to degradation."

Researchers urge an integrated conservation approach: sustainable water management (like drip irrigation), rotational grazing policies, protected area establishment, and remote sensing for plant monitoring. They stress the importance of aligning these actions with global frameworks such as the UN Convention to Combat Desertification and the Sustainable Development Goals.

"DRPs are essential for climate adaptation in drylands," said Dr. Akash Tariq. Safeguarding their potential is both an ecological and socio-economic imperative. Investing in these natural guardians strengthens the resilience and sustainability of arid lands worldwide.

The review urges scientists, policymakers, and land managers to prioritize deep-rooted plants and maintain their essential role in protecting the world's arid ecosystems.

Read the full article: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tplants.2025.10.009

Figure 1: Root and leaf architecture of deep-rooted plants in arid ecosystems. (Image by XIEG)

Figure 2: Deep-rooted plants and carbon sequestration in arid ecosystems. (Image by XIEG)

Contact

LONG Huaping

Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography

E-mail: longhp@ms.xjb.ac.cn

Web: http://english.egi.cas.cn