Loss of microbial diversity influences functional potentials in topsoil and subsoil

Loss of microbial diversity can significantly influence soil functions, yet most research has concentrated on topsoil, leaving the effects on subsoil largely unexplored. We found that the impact of microbial diversity loss on soil functions varies by soil depth. This divergent response underscores the different interactions between soil functions and environmental conditions in topsoil and subsoil and highlights the critical importance of considering soil depth and specific organic C components when evaluating the ecological impacts of microbial diversity loss.