Summary
This study characterised the root bacterial microbiome of red clover, a legume of agronomic importance, using both molecular and culture-based methods. Rhizobia dominated the microbiome at ~70% relative abundance, whilst other enriched genera potentially providing disease protection were identified. Simplified microcosm experiments revealed context-dependent effects of individual microbiome members on plant growth, with results suggesting that community diversity can buffer negative effects of individual bacterial strains.
UK applicability
Findings are relevant to UK grassland and legume-based agricultural systems, particularly regarding the role of root microbiota in legume productivity and nitrogen fixation. Results may inform management strategies for enhancing legume establishment and performance in UK pasture and arable rotations, though field validation under UK conditions would be necessary.
Key measures
Relative abundance of bacterial taxa in root microbiome (16S rRNA sequencing and culture methods), number of bacterial isolates in reference stock, plant growth outcomes under different inoculation treatments (monoculture vs. consortia)
Outcomes reported
The study characterised the root bacterial microbiome of red clover (Trifolium pratense) and identified dominant taxa including Rhizobia and enriched genera such as Pantoea and Sphingomonas. Microcosm inoculation experiments demonstrated that individual microbiome members could negatively impact plant growth when inoculated alone, but this effect was alleviated by co-inoculation with diverse community members.
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