Modulation of the Rhizosphere Microbial Network by Dark Septate Endophytes Enhances Salt Tolerance in Lycium ruthenicum Murr.

This study aims to investigate how dark septate endophytes (DSE) enhance the salt tolerance of *Lycium ruthenicum* by modulating the structure and function of the rhizosphere microbial community. Through in vitro and pot experiments, the study reveals the physiological adaptation strategies of different DSE strains under salt stress, as well as their regulatory effects on plant growth, ion homeostasis, antioxidant systems, and soil microenvironments. It also elucidates the ecological role of DSE in reshaping the rhizosphere microbial network and enhancing community stability. The significance of this research lies in uncovering novel mechanisms of plant salt tolerance from a microbial interaction perspective, providing a theoretical foundation and practical approach for utilizing DSE and their synergistic microbes to remediate saline soils and improve crop stress resistance. This contributes valuable insights to promoting sustainable agriculture and ecological restoration.