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Abstract
The rhizosphere microbiome is a central determinant of plant performance. Microbiome
assembly has traditionally been investigated from a bottom-up perspective, assessing
how resources such as root exudates drive microbiome assembly. However, the importance
of predation as a driver of microbiome structure has to date largely remained overlooked.
Here we review the importance of protists, a paraphyletic group of unicellular eukaryotes,
as a key regulator of microbiome assembly. Protists can promote plant-beneficial functions
within the microbiome, accelerate nutrient cycling, and remove pathogens. We conclude
that protists form an essential component of the rhizosphere microbiome and that accounting
for predator-prey interactions would greatly improve our ability to predict and manage
microbiome function at the service of plant growth and health.