Modulation of sulfur-cycling microbial community and functional gene network by vermicompost amendment in saline-alkali soils
摘要 Soil microorganisms drive sulfur(S)biogeochemical cycle,a critical process supporting plant growth and soil fertility.In saline-alkali soils,microbial survival is challenged by harsh conditions,requiring adaptations such as antioxidant enzyme production.Soil amendments,particularly vermicompost,may enhance microbial resilience.This study used metagenomic techniques to investigate the effects of saline-alkali stress on the structure and functional roles of soil S-cycling microbial communities.Three treatments were analyzed:saline-alkali soil(SA),non-saline soil(control,CK),and vermicompost-amended saline-alkali soil(SV).Significant differences were observed in S-cycling microbial communities between SA and CK.In SA,the relative abundance of S reduction functional genes significantly increased by 67.7%compared to CK(P<0.05).Conversely,SV reduced these genes by 42%relative to SA(P<0.05),aligning their abundance with CK.Furthermore,genes involved in assimilatory sulfate reduction were significantly upregulated in SV compared to both SA and CK(P<0.05),showing a 10%increase over SA(P<0.05).These findings demonstrate that vermicompost modulates S-cycling functional gene expression,suppressing dissimilatory sulfur reduction while enhancing sulfate assimilation,thereby improving S bioavailability.This study provides microbiological evidence for vermicompost-driven restoration of the S cycle in saline-alkali soils,offering a sustainable strategy for ecological rehabilitation and soil management.
刊 名 土壤圈(英文版) ISTICSCI
年,卷(期): 2026, 36(4)
机标分类号: S TP391 TP273
在线出版日期: 2026年9月9日