The Tale of a Neglected Energy Source: Elevated Hydrogen Exposure Affects both Microbial Diversity and Function in Soil.

ABSTRACT: The enrichment of H₂-oxidizing bacteria (HOB) by H₂ generated by nitrogen-fixing nodules has been shown to have a fertilization effect on several different crops. The benefit of HOB is attributed to their production of plant growth-promoting factors, yet their interactions with other members of soil microbial communities have received little attention. Here we report that the energy potential of H₂, when supplied to soil, alters ecological niche partitioning of bacteria and fungi, with multifaceted consequences for both generalist and specialist microbial functions. We used dynamic microcosms to expose soil to the typical atmospheric H₂ mixing ratio (0.5 ppmv) permeating soils, as well as mixing ratios comparable to those found at the soil-nodule

SUBMITTER: Khdhiri M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5440700 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature