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Structure vs. chemistry: Alternate mechanisms for controlling leaf microbiomes.

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The upper leaf surface (adaxial) hosts more bacteria than the lower surface (abaxial) in two plant species. This difference in phyllosphere microbiome is linked to plant defense strategies and leaf surface characteristics.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Plant Science
  • Ecology

Background:

  • Traditional phyllosphere microbiome analysis uses DNA from whole leaves.
  • Investigating distinct microbial communities on upper (adaxial) and lower (abaxial) leaf surfaces is crucial for understanding plant-microbe interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare microbial communities on the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces of Rhapis excelsa and Cordyline fruticosa.
  • To determine if microbial diversity varies with time (day/night) and location.
  • To explore the factors influencing differential microbial colonization on leaf surfaces.

Main Methods:

  • Swab collection from adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces of two plant species.
  • Sampling at different times (noon, midnight) and locations.
  • Co-occurrence network analysis to study microbial community structure.

Main Results:

  • The abaxial leaf surface consistently showed fewer bacteria compared to the adaxial surface.
  • Bacteria were predominantly found on the adaxial surface, while fungi were limited to the abaxial surface.
  • Differences in leaf surface microstructure and chemical activity, along with higher stomatal density on the abaxial surface, may influence microbial distribution.

Conclusions:

  • The adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces harbor distinct phyllosphere microbiomes.
  • Plant defense mechanisms, including chemical and mechanical strategies, likely shape microbial communities, particularly on the abaxial surface.
  • Reduced microbial diversity on the abaxial surface is a result of plant-microbe interactions and specialized leaf surface properties.