Disturbance alters the forest soil microbiome.

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Microbiology
• Forest Science

Background:

• Soil microorganisms are vital for terrestrial ecosystem functions, including nutrient cycling and plant symbiosis.
• Forest ecosystems face increasing disturbances, yet the impact on soil microbial communities remains poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of human and natural disturbances on the soil microbiome in Mountain Ash forests.
• To identify key soil properties and environmental factors associated with microbial community composition.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of soil samples from 80 sites across Mountain Ash forests.
• Identification of archaea, fungi, and bacteria using microbial operational taxonomic units.
• Statistical analysis to correlate microbial diversity and composition with disturbance types and environmental variables.

Main Results:

• Disturbances significantly altered soil microbial diversity and composition.
• Ectomycorrhizal fungi diversity decreased with clearcut logging; archaea diversity declined with salvage logging.
• Bacterial and overall microbial diversity decreased with increased fire frequency; soil pH and nutrient levels were key associated factors.

Conclusions:

• Forest soil microbial communities are sensitive to disturbances, with varying impacts depending on the type of disturbance.
• Understanding these responses is crucial for managing forest ecosystems and their ecological functions.
• Soil properties play a significant role in shaping microbial community structure and function under disturbance regimes.