Stimulation of root acid phosphatase by phosphorus deficiency is regulated by ethylene in Medicago falcata

▶ Phosphorus (P) deficiency induced evolution of ethylene from roots. ▶ The evolved ethylene stimulated root acid phosphatase activity and up-regulated gene encoding the acid phosphatase and high-affinity phosphate transporters. ▶ The enhanced acid phosphatase activity facilitated hydrolysis of organic P in rhizosphere, leading to greater acquisition of P under P-deficient conditions.