Effects of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer on microbial diversity

The common or fast-release nitrogen fertilizer exhibits characteristics of rapid release and high volatility, leading to defer-utilization during later stages of crop growth. Conversely, the application of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer not only reduces labor input and mechanical costs for farmers but also minimizes volatilization losses through its gradual release properties. Determining the appropriate rate of slow-release nitrogen fertilizer application is crucial in understanding the interplay in soil microbial community structure, network complexity, maize yield, as well as selecting suitable nitrogen application rates for regional ecological security in agro-pastoral interleaved zones. Building upon a positioning experiment conducted in 2018, this study investigates six different gradients of slow-release nitrogen fertilizers to elucidate key factors influencing dominant species and community structures of microorganisms across various spatial locations. The results revealed that ALPT (protease), NO3--N, and pH were the primary factors influencing the composition of bacterial microbial communities under slow-release nitrogen fertilizer application. MBC, ALPT, and HR played a significant role in shaping fungal microbial community composition.