16s genomic sequencing mountain forest soil

In the Appalachian context, it is worth noting the potentially unique role of Robinia pseudoacacia(black locust) in multi-species restoration. R. pseudoacacia is a nitrogen fixing tree that is common in early secondary forests on former agricultural lands. In these successional contexts it plays a unique role in nutrient cycling and creating habitat for forest species (Fowler et al., 2015). In addition to fixing nitrogen and increasing levels in the soil, it has been shown to increase soil phosphorus through leaf and flower deposition (Lee et al., 2011). Its ability to cycle phosphorus is related to its ability to form mycorrhizal associations. This restoration potential has been less studied in Appalachia. (Wang et al., 2020; Xu et al., 2020). R. pseudoacacia's role in phosphorus cycling during early succession creates potential synergies with the STEPS Project. The study aims to promote forest restoration through soil microbial community resilience, which accelerates the adoption of forest production, protection, restoration, and afforestation in Appalachia.