Study of soil microbial diversity in different cropping systems

Modern agriculture emphasizes the design of cropping systems using ecological function and production services to achieve sustainability. The functional characteristics of plants (grasses vs. legumes) affect changes in soil microbial communities that drive agroecosystem services. Information on the relationship between legume-grass mixtures and soil microorganisms in different ecological zones guides decision-making towards eco-friendly and sustainable forage production. However, the effects of the cropping pattern on soil microorganisms in different ecological zones are relatively unknown. To fill this gap in knowledge, we conducted this study.