Bacterial community in sugarcane rhizosphere under Bacillus subtilis inoculation and straw return

This study explored how sugarcane straw recycling, a sustainable farming practice, interacts with Bacillus subtilis inoculation to shape microbial communities in the rhizosphere. While straw return provides carbon and energy to soil microbes, adding B. subtilis did not alter overall bacterial diversity. Instead, it strengthened interactions among plant-growth-promoting bacteria (like Bradyrhizobium) and reduced their functional specialization, fostering a more adaptable microbial network. These findings highlight how strategic microbial management can optimize soil ecosystems without disrupting natural diversity, key insights for sustainable agriculture.