Phosphorus deficiency promotes root morphological and biochemical changes to enhance phosphorus uptake in Phyllostachys edulis seedlings

Background and aims Phosphorus (P) is a critical yet often limited nutrient in ecosystems, affecting plant growth and nutrient cycling. Moso bamboo ( Phyllostachys edulis ), a widely cultivated species, frequently encounters P deficiency in soils. This study explores its P acquisition strategies, focusing on root adaptations, nutrient allocation, and enzymatic activities under varying soil P conditions. Methods A pot experiment with P. edulis seedlings was conducted under three P treatments: low (P1: 5mg·kg ^− 1 ), medium (P2: 10 mg·kg ^− 1 ), and high (P3: 20 mg·kg ^− 1 ). We assessed the root morphology and the nutrient content in plant tissues, including total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and total potassium (TK). in plant tissues, and key intracellular enzymes in roots (acid phosphatase (ACP), deoxyribonuclease(DNase), ribonuclease (RNase)) with P mobilizing capacity involved in P acquisition.. Soil nutrient levels total nitrogen (TN)、total phosphorus (TP)、available nitrogen (AN)、available phosphorus (AP)、available potassium (AK)、soil organic matter (SOM). were also monitored to assess cycling dynamics. Results Our findings indicate that during the T1 growth stage, there were significant spatiotemporal variations in soil TN and TP content. Root hair density, length, and lateral root number increased significantly, while intracellular enzyme activity in P. edulis roots gradually declined with increasing P supply. By the T2 growth stage, TP exhibited a linear increase with P supply levels, and root volume and surface area surpassed those under the P3 treatment. Only DNase activity maintained significant P supply-dependent differences. Internal nutrient allocation shifted, with a notable decrease in P content in roots, stems, and leaves, while nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) levels remained stable. Conclusion P. edulis employs multiple strategies to adapt to P deficiency. Although short-term soil P fluctuations are minimal, long-term P management is crucial for enhancing nutrient cycling and bamboo growth.