Decoding the Impact of Acidification and Toxic Metal Stress on Tea Soil Bacteriome: Integrating 16S rRNA Sequencing...

Acidification coupled with TMs pollution in tea soil pose a significant threat to the ecosystem by adversely affecting soil health. This research links 16 S rRNA sequencing analysis with advanced statistical tools to evaluate synergistic effect of acidity and TMs pollution on bacteriome of two tea-cultivating zones of India. Results indicated bioavailable TMs level was substantially greater in zone 1 (WS_Cr: 2.98 mg/kg, Ex_Cr: 6.98 mg/kg, WS_Ni: 1.39 mg/kg, Ex_Ni: 4.54 mg/kg) than in zone 2. Elevated acidity levels in zone 1 fostered substantial accumulation of TMs in soil. In contrast, zone 2 exhibited improved microbial activity due to reduced TMs and acidity stress.16 S rRNA sequencing reflected higher prevalence of Cyanobacteria across zones (zone 1: 2.81%, zone 2: 8.715%). GIS and SOM maps illustrated impact of bioavailable TMs and acidity on soil microbial activity. Random Forest analysis highlighted significant influence of BA_Cr and Ex_Al on Acidobacteria. Strikingly, both zones exhibited diverse bacteriome. Increased TOC content may have compensated for adverse impacts of soil stressors, thereby facilitating the survival of diverse bacteriome in both zones. This research provides valuable insights into dual effect of soil acidity and TMs on tea soil bacteriome, aiding scientists and policymakers in promoting sustainable tea cultivation worldwide.