Metagenomics of seagrass Rhizosphere and bulk soil microbiomes

This project aims to elucidate the differences in microbial community structure and functional groups between seagrass rhizosphere soil and bulk soil through in-depth analysis of microbial metagenomes. Seagrass ecosystems, as one of the important marine blue carbon ecosystems, play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and provide habitats for numerous marine organisms. However, our understanding of microbial diversity and ecological functions within these systems is still in its infancy.By employing high-throughput sequencing technology, this study will compare the microbial community composition between seagrass rhizosphere and bulk soil samples, with a focus on analyzing the factors influencing microbial community assembly, including but not limited to environmental variables (such as nutrient concentrations, pH values, etc.) and plant-microbe interaction mechanisms. Additionally, the functional potential of microbes in nutrient cycling, organic matter degradation, and plant health maintenance will be explored. The specific objectives of this project include: Describing and comparing the diversity and structure of microbial communities in seagrass rhizosphere and bulk soil. Identifying key microbial taxa enriched in the seagrass rhizosphere and their potential functions. Understanding the possible mechanisms underlying the formation and maintenance of seagrass rhizosphere microbial communities. Assessing the contribution of microbial communities to seagrass growth and adaptability.