Agricultural intensification reduces microbial network complexity and the abundance of keystone taxa in roots

Summary

This study demonstrates that organic farming systems harbour significantly more complex root fungal networks with higher connectivity compared to conventional and no-till systems in wheat. Agricultural intensification was strongly negatively associated with fungal network complexity (R² = 0.366; P < 0.0001), with keystone taxa—predominantly arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi—being most abundant under organic management. The findings suggest that farming practices directly shape the structure and functional diversity of root microbiota, with potential implications for soil health and plant performance.

UK applicability

These findings are directly applicable to UK arable farming, particularly wheat production, where similar farming system intensities are practised. The results support the potential benefits of organic and reduced-input systems for enhancing soil biological complexity, though UK-specific validation across different soil types and climates would strengthen evidence for policy or advisory recommendations.

Key measures

Fungal network connectivity, keystone taxa abundance, mycorrhizal colonisation in roots and soils, soil phosphorus levels, bulk density, soil pH, agricultural intensification index

Outcomes reported

The study compared root fungal communities in wheat across conventional, no-till, and organic farming systems using PacBio SMRT sequencing. It measured fungal network connectivity, keystone taxa abundance, mycorrhizal colonisation, and soil properties across 60 farmlands.

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