The Tansley review by David L. Jones, Angela Hodge, and Yakov Kuzyakov explores the regulation of rhizodeposition, the process by which roots release carbon compounds into the soil. The review highlights the importance of root exudates in nutrient acquisition and their role in the rhizosphere, the unique zone around plant roots. Root exudates, primarily low molecular weight solutes like sugars, amino acids, and organic acids, influence microbial activity and nutrient cycling. While the mechanisms of exudation are not fully understood, the review emphasizes the need for more integrated studies to quantify the functional significance of these processes in natural systems. The review also discusses the role of mycorrhizal fungi in rhizodeposition and the impact of various environmental factors on root exudation. It concludes that while root exudation is a significant source of carbon loss, its ecological significance remains poorly understood, and further research is needed to clarify the complex interactions within the rhizosphere. The review underscores the importance of studying root exudation in realistic field conditions to better understand its role in sustainable agriculture and ecosystem responses to climate change.The Tansley review by David L. Jones, Angela Hodge, and Yakov Kuzyakov explores the regulation of rhizodeposition, the process by which roots release carbon compounds into the soil. The review highlights the importance of root exudates in nutrient acquisition and their role in the rhizosphere, the unique zone around plant roots. Root exudates, primarily low molecular weight solutes like sugars, amino acids, and organic acids, influence microbial activity and nutrient cycling. While the mechanisms of exudation are not fully understood, the review emphasizes the need for more integrated studies to quantify the functional significance of these processes in natural systems. The review also discusses the role of mycorrhizal fungi in rhizodeposition and the impact of various environmental factors on root exudation. It concludes that while root exudation is a significant source of carbon loss, its ecological significance remains poorly understood, and further research is needed to clarify the complex interactions within the rhizosphere. The review underscores the importance of studying root exudation in realistic field conditions to better understand its role in sustainable agriculture and ecosystem responses to climate change.