Impact of Plasmodiophora brassicae on canola root and rhizosphere microbiomes and its implications for clubroot biocontrol

Clubroot, caused by the obligate parasite Plasmodiophora brassicae, is a soilborne disease affecting canola (Brassica napus) and other crucifers. Although planting resistant cultivars remains the primary strategy for managing clubroot, the emergence of resistance-breaking P. brassicae pathotypes continues to threaten canola production. In this context, soil and root microorganisms may play a role in suppressing the disease. This study investigated the impact of P. brassicae on the microbial communities associated with the soil, seeds, roots, and rhizosphere of clubroot-susceptible and clubroot-resistant canola lines, with the goal of identifying potential biocontrol microorganisms.