Variation in nodule microbial communities and its superiority in supporting plant nodulation

Symbiotic rhizobia drive legume productivity, yet nonrhizobial nodule endophytes remain understudied despite their growth-promoting potential. We analyzed nodule microbiomes of 310 Arachis hypogaea samples across 33 native-range sites, revealing soil properties and host genotype as primary drivers of community assembly. Nonrhizobial diversity correlated with nodule activity, contrasting with stable rhizobial composition. Despite geographic and varietal variations, a conserved core microbiota emerged, dominated by prevalent taxa enriched in active nodules.