Metagenomics of Lishui Straw return experiment

To assess the long-term ecological effects of straw return in a faba bean-rice rotation system, a field trial was established in 2023. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with four treatments and three replicates: T1: No straw return (control); T2: Rice straw returned only; T3: Faba bean straw returned only; T4: Both rice and faba bean straw returned. Each plot measured 21 square meters (7 m x 3 m). Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and faba bean (Vicia faba L.) were cultivated following local standard agronomic practices. No synthetic fertilizers or pesticides were applied to minimize interference with soil biological responses. Weed control was carried out manually.