Structures, diversity, and functions of endophytic bacterial communities in the roots of different peach varieties

Abstract:

[Background] Endophytic bacterial communities in the roots of peach plants have the potential to promote plant growth and enhance stress resistance. Studying the structures and functions of these microbial communities can reveal the role of endophytes in peach root growth and development. The results can serve the subsequent development and utilization of microbial resources. [Objective] To study the structures, diversity, and functions of endophytic bacterial communities in the roots of different peach varieties, laying a foundation for further research on the relationship between peach plants and endophytes. [Methods] We employed 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to study the community structure and diversity of endophytic bacteria in the roots of seven different peach varieties in the National Peach Base in Pinggu District, Beijing. Furthermore, we performed linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) and used PICRUSt2 for function prediction. [Results] Significant differences existed in the structures of endophytic bacterial communities in the roots among red-skin, white-skin, and yellow-fleshed peach varieties. The dominant phyla were Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes, with Actinobacteriota being predominant in most samples. The Shannon and Simpson indices of the bacterial communities were significantly different among the varieties, indicating the varied and complex diversity of root endophytes among different peach varieties. LEfSe identified the root endophyte biomarkers associated with peach varieties, such as Bifidobacterium, which had higher relative abundance in red-skin and white-skin peach varieties. The endophytic bacteria showcased varied biological functions among different red-skin peach varieties, mainly participating in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, which highlighted the potential impact of endophytic bacteria on the physiological functions of host plants. [Conclusion] This study revealed the structures, diversity, and functions of endophytic bacterial communities in the roots of different peach varieties, enriching our knowledge and laying a foundation for the development and utilization of endophytic bacterial resources in peach plants.