Rhizosphere Microbiome via 16S Metagenomics in Saline Treated Soil

This study aims to explore the impact of salinity stress on the bacterial communities within the wheat rhizosphere, with a focus on understanding how these microbial populations contribute to plant growth and stress tolerance under saline conditions. Salinity is one of the most pressing abiotic stresses affecting crop productivity, particularly in regions with high soil salinity, which limits wheat growth and yield. The rhizosphere, the narrow zone of soil influenced by plant roots, plays a critical role in plant health, as it is home to diverse microbial communities that interact with the plant, influencing nutrient uptake, growth promotion, and stress resilience. This research employs 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to profile the bacterial diversity in the rhizosphere of wheat grown in saline-treated soils. By analyzing shifts in microbial composition, including the dominance of specific bacterial phyla, the study identifies microbial signatures associated with salt tolerance. Key genera were highlighted as potential biomarkers for enhancing wheat's resistance to salinity stress. Understanding these microbial dynamics offers valuable insights into how beneficial microbes support wheat growth in challenging soil environments. Ultimately, this research aims to identify microbial strategies that can be harnessed to develop salinity-tolerant wheat cultivars, advancing agricultural sustainability and food security in salt-affected areas.