articleEcology LettersJun 6, 2016GREEN OA

The interconnected rhizosphere: High network complexity dominates rhizosphere assemblages

University of Oklahoma · University of California, Berkeley · +4 more institutions

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Abstract

While interactions between roots and microorganisms have been intensively studied, we know little about interactions among root-associated microbes. We used random matrix theory-based network analysis of 16S rRNA genes to identify bacterial networks associated with wild oat (Avena fatua) over two seasons in greenhouse microcosms. Rhizosphere networks were substantially more complex than those in surrounding soils, indicating the rhizosphere has a greater potential for interactions and niche-sharing. Network complexity increased as plants grew, even as diversity decreased, highlighting that community organisation is not captured by univariate diversity. Covariations were predominantly positive (> 80%),…

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