Illumina-based 18S rRNA amplicon sequencing is used to assess the impact of different carbon addition strategies to soil of different types within both model and orchard systems. Effect of carbon amendments on microbial communities

The use of biochar as a soil structure modifier and stable carbon amendment was examined in a number of contexts. Firstly to determine the direct effect of different levels on microbial community structure impact and activity modification within a model pot systems. Further biochar amendments within a cherry orchard site at Lucaston in Tasmania, Australia was also compatred with a number of soil conditioning products. Biochar was derived from whole eucalypt tree green waste. Biochar was applied at 4 different loading levels in pots with 3 different soil types that have inherently different soil fetrtilities. Within the orchard bioachar was applied with humate (Ferbon soil condition) and a microbial incoulant with seaweed extract (Effective Microbe soil incoulant). All treatments were in place 12 months before assessment. The bacterial, archaeal and eukaryotic communities were assessed using Illumina sequencing of amplicons. The functionality was assessed with a panel of enzyme tests and Ecoplates. Biomass was assessed via agar plate counting and also measured as total DNA. Comprehensive chemical analysis was also performed.