Data from: Genome-wide association study of Arabidopsis thaliana leaf microbial community

Identifying the factors that influence the outcome of host–microbial
interactions is critical to protecting biodiversity, minimizing
agricultural losses and improving human health. A few genes that determine
symbiosis or resistance to infectious disease have been identified in
model species, but a comprehensive examination of how a host genotype
influences the structure of its microbial community is lacking. Here we
report the results of a field experiment with the model plant Arabidopsis
thaliana to identify the fungi and bacteria that colonize its leaves and
the host loci that influence the microbe numbers. The composition of this
community differs among accessions of A. thaliana. Genome-wide association
studies (GWAS) suggest that plant loci responsible for defense and cell
wall integrity affect variation in this community. Furthermore, species
richness in the bacterial community is shaped by host genetic variation,
notably at loci that also influence the reproduction of viruses, trichome
branching and morphogenesis.