Research Report

Co-regulation of Soil Microbial Communities by Straw Incorporation and Fertilizer Application in Maize and Its Impact on Yield  

Lan Zhou1 , Yan Bao1 , Jiaen Wang1 , Shuling Wang1 , Weixin Zhong1 , Xiangrui Sun1
1 College of Agriculture, Jilin Agricultural Scienceand Technology University, Jilin, 132101, Jilin, China
2 Meihekou City Farmers'Science and Technology Education Center, Meihekou City, 135000, Jilin, China
Author    Correspondence author
Molecular Microbiology Research, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 6   doi: 10.5376/mmr.2024.14.0031
Received: 28 Oct., 2024    Accepted: 07 Dec., 2024    Published: 22 Dec., 2024
© 2024 BioPublisher Publishing Platform
This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Preferred citation for this article:

Zhou L., Bao Y., Wang J.E., Wang S.L., Zhong W.X., and Sun X.R., 2024, Co-regulation of soil microbial communities by straw incorporation and fertilizer application in maize and its impact on yield, Molecular Microbiology Research, 14(6): 290-297 (doi: 10.5376/mmr.2024.14.0031)

Abstract

The study investigates the combined effects of straw incorporation and nitrogen (N) fertilization on soil microbial communities and maize yield. Over a multi-year field experiment, various treatments involving different levels of N fertilization and straw incorporation were applied to maize fields. The results demonstrated that straw incorporation significantly enhanced soil enzyme activities, microbial abundance, and diversity, particularly in combination with moderate N fertilization levels. The bacterial and fungal communities showed distinct responses, with Proteobacteria and Basidiomycota being the predominant phyla. The study also found that soil properties such as water content and penetration resistance were crucial in influencing microbial activities. Furthermore, the integration of straw and N fertilization improved soil fertility and maize yield, highlighting the importance of balanced agricultural practices for sustainable crop production. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing fertilization strategies to enhance soil health and crop productivity.

Keywords
Soil microbial communities; Straw incorporation; Nitrogen fertilization; Maize yield; Soil enzyme activities

1 Introduction

Global agricultural sustainability faces numerous challenges, including soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and the need to increase crop yields to feed a growing population. Soil health is a critical factor in addressing these challenges, as it directly influences crop productivity and ecosystem stability. The incorporation of straw and the application of fertilizers are two agricultural practices that can significantly impact soil microbial communities, which play a vital role in nutrient cycling and soil fertility. Straw return, or the practice of incorporating crop residues back into the soil, has been shown to enhance soil organic carbon, improve soil structure, and increase microbial activity (Yang et al., 2022; Aon et al., 2023). Similarly, fertilization, particularly with nitrogen, can boost soil nutrient levels and support microbial processes essential for plant growth (Wang et al., 2021; Akhtar et al., 2023). However, the combined effects of straw return and fertilization on soil microbial communities and their subsequent impact on crop yields remain underexplored.

 

Understanding the co-regulation of soil microbial communities by straw incorporation and fertilizer application can provide a theoretical basis for developing sustainable agricultural management practices. By promoting a balance between farmland ecosystem health and high crop yields, it can contribute to the development of strategies that enhance soil fertility, improve crop productivity, and support long-term agricultural sustainability.

 

This study aims to explore how the synergistic application of straw return and fertilization can regulate soil microbial communities and enhance maize yields. Specifically, the objectives are to investigate the changes in soil microbial community composition and diversity in response to straw incorporation and fertilizer application. Evaluate the impact of these changes on soil enzyme activities and nutrient availability. Assess the overall effect of these practices on maize growth and yield.

 

2 Effects on Soil Microbial Communities

2.1 Overview of straw incorporation

Straw incorporation refers to the agricultural practice of returning crop residues, such as corn stover, wheat straw, and rice straw, back into the soil after harvest. This practice is significant in agriculture as it enhances soil fertility, improves soil structure, and promotes sustainable farming by recycling nutrients and organic matter back into the soil (Chen et al., 2017; Yang et al., 2022; Song et al., 2023). The types of straw commonly used include corn stover, wheat straw, and rice straw, each contributing differently to soil properties and microbial communities due to their unique compositions (Di et al., 2023).

 

2.2 Microbial responses to straw incorporation

Straw incorporation significantly affects soil microbial diversity, composition, and activity. The addition of straw increases microbial diversity and alters the composition of bacterial and fungal communities. For instance, straw returning has been shown to increase the relative abundance of beneficial microbial taxa such as Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Actinobacteria, while also promoting the growth of fungi like Ascomycota and Mortierellomycota (Liu et al., 2021; Zhang et al., 2023). The breakdown of straw components such as cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin involves complex interactions with soil microorganisms. Specific bacterial groups, including Arthrobacter, Sphingomonas, and Streptomyces, play crucial roles in decomposing these components, thereby enhancing soil nutrient availability and microbial activity (Zhang et al., 2022).

 

2.3 Nutrient cycling and soil health

The decomposition of straw contributes significantly to nutrient cycling, particularly the carbon and nitrogen cycles. Straw incorporation increases soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) levels, which are essential for maintaining soil fertility and promoting plant growth (Li et al., 2018). The process of straw decomposition also enhances soil organic matter and microbial biomass, leading to improved soil structure and health. Enzyme activities such as urease, sucrase, and cellulase are elevated in soils with straw incorporation, further facilitating nutrient cycling and microbial processes (Liu et al., 2021). Additionally, straw return has been shown to mitigate the negative effects of inorganic fertilizers on soil microbial communities, promoting a more stable and diverse microbial ecosystem (Zhang et al., 2022).

 

3 Impact on Microbial Communities

3.1 Overview of fertilizer types

Organic fertilizers, such as manure and compost, are derived from natural sources and decompose slowly, releasing nutrients over time. In contrast, inorganic fertilizers are synthetically produced and provide immediate nutrient availability. The choice between organic and inorganic fertilizers can significantly influence soil microbial communities. For instance, long-term application of organic fertilizers has been shown to sustain soil microbial communities and improve soil fertility (Wang et al., 2021). Inorganic fertilizers, while effective in providing immediate nutrient boosts, can lead to soil acidification and alter microbial diversity (Mei et al., 2021).

 

In maize production, the most commonly used fertilizers include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These nutrients are essential for plant growth and development. Nitrogen fertilizers, such as urea, are crucial for vegetative growth, while phosphorus fertilizers, like superphosphate, support root development and energy transfer. Potassium fertilizers, such as potassium chloride, enhance water uptake and disease resistance. The balanced application of NPK fertilizers has been shown to significantly improve maize yield and soil nutrient status (Muhammad et al., 2022).

 

3.2 Microbial response to fertilization

Fertilizer application can lead to significant shifts in soil microbial community composition. For example, nitrogen fertilization has been found to increase the abundance of certain bacterial phyla such as Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria, while decreasing others like Actinobacteria (Mei et al., 2021). Similarly, phosphorus availability has been identified as a key factor influencing microbial community structure, particularly in nutrient-poor soils (Wang et al., 2021). The combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers can enhance microbial diversity and promote beneficial microbial interactions (Guo et al., 2022).

 

Fertilization practices also impact microbial processes critical for nutrient cycling. Nitrogen fertilization can enhance nitrification and denitrification activities, which are essential for nitrogen availability and loss in the soil. Phosphorus solubilization, facilitated by specific microbial taxa, is crucial for making phosphorus available to plants. The application of organic fertilizers can promote these microbial processes by providing a steady supply of organic matter and nutrients (Chen et al., 2021; Yang et al., 2022).

 

3.3 Soil acidification and nutrient imbalances

Excessive use of inorganic fertilizers can lead to soil acidification, which negatively affects soil pH and microbial diversity. For instance, long-term application of high nitrogen rates has been shown to decrease soil pH, thereby altering the microbial community structure and reducing microbial diversity (Liu et al., 2021; Mei et al., 2021). This acidification can inhibit the growth of beneficial microbes and promote the proliferation of acid-tolerant species, potentially leading to nutrient imbalances and reduced soil fertility.

 

4 Co-regulation of Soil Microbial Communities by Straw Incorporation and Fertilizer

4.1 Interactions between straw incorporation and fertilizer application

Straw incorporation and fertilizer application interact in complex ways to influence soil microbial communities. Synergistically, straw incorporation enhances soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN), which in turn supports a diverse microbial community. For instance, straw returning significantly increased soil fertility, enzymatic activities, and the diversity and composition of bacterial and fungal communities compared to traditional planting methods (Yang et al., 2022; Zhou and Xu, 2024). However, nitrogen (N) fertilization alone can decrease the richness of bacterial and fungal communities, indicating a potential antagonistic effect when not combined with organic inputs.

 

The combination of straw incorporation and N fertilization also affects the carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio and nutrient availability in the soil. Straw incorporation tends to increase the relative abundance of cellulolytic bacteria, which are crucial for breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients. This practice also enhances the activities of enzymes involved in carbon and nitrogen cycling, such as urease and sucrase, thereby improving nutrient availability (Sui et al., 2022). On the other hand, excessive N fertilization can alter the C/N ratio unfavorably, potentially leading to nutrient imbalances and reduced microbial diversity (Muhammad et al., 2022).

 

4.2 Effects on key microbial groups

Both straw incorporation and fertilizer application significantly impact key functional microbial groups, including nitrogen-fixing bacteria and decomposers. For example, straw mulch has been shown to boost the relative abundances of bacteria involved in chemoheterotrophy, ureolysis, and nitrogen fixation (Chen et al., 2021). Similarly, N fertilization enhances the abundance of copiotrophic bacterial taxa like Alphaproteobacteria, which are involved in nutrient cycling (Sui et al., 2022).

 

Specific microbial taxa respond differently to straw and fertilizer inputs. For instance, the incorporation of straw increased the fungal biomass, particularly of saprotrophic fungi such as Chaetomiaceae and Chaetosphaeriaceae, which play a crucial role in decomposing organic matter. In contrast, N fertilization alone tends to favor bacterial taxa like Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria, which are essential for nutrient cycling but may not be as effective in organic matter decomposition (Sui et al., 2022; Muhammad et al., 2022).

 

4.3 Temporal dynamics

The temporal dynamics of microbial community responses to straw incorporation and fertilizer application can vary significantly. Short-term effects often include immediate increases in microbial activity and enzyme functions, as seen with straw mulch improving soil carbon and nitrogen cycles (Chen et al., 2021). Long-term effects, however, may lead to more stable changes in microbial community structure and function. For example, a 40-year study found that long-term fertilization significantly altered bacterial community composition, particularly when organic inputs were included (Muhammad et al., 2022).

 

Seasonal variations also play a crucial role in microbial activity. During the maize growing season, the combination of straw incorporation and N fertilization was found to activate nitrifiers and the nitrification process, especially at mid-growing season when soil C and N availability were low (Sui et al., 2022). This suggests that the timing of straw and fertilizer application can significantly influence microbial community dynamics and soil fertility throughout the growing season.

 

5 Impact on Maize Yield

5.1 Mechanisms linking microbial communities to crop yield

Microbial communities play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, which directly impacts crop yield. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, such as those in the genera Azospirillum and Pseudomonas, convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can absorb, thereby enhancing nitrogen availability in the soil (Salvo et al., 2018). Similarly, phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria help in converting insoluble phosphorus compounds into soluble forms, making them accessible to plants. This microbial-mediated nutrient availability is essential for the growth and productivity of maize (Geist et al., 2023).

 

Microbial activity also contributes to soil structure improvement. The production of extracellular polysaccharides by soil microbes helps in the formation of soil aggregates, which improve soil aeration and water retention. Enhanced soil structure facilitates better root growth and nutrient uptake, ultimately leading to higher crop yields (Chen et al., 2021; Sui et al., 2022). For instance, the incorporation of straw and nitrogen fertilization has been shown to improve soil enzyme activities and microbial community structure, which are critical for maintaining soil health and fertility (Muhammad et al., 2022).

 

5.2 Effects of straw and fertilizer management on yield

Different straw incorporation and fertilization regimes have varying impacts on maize yield. Studies have shown that straw returning combined with nitrogen fertilization significantly enhances soil fertility, enzyme activities, and microbial diversity compared to traditional planting methods (Yang et al., 2020). For example, a study conducted in Northeast China demonstrated that straw incorporation with moderate nitrogen fertilization improved soil enzyme activities and microbial communities, leading to better soil quality and higher maize yields (Sui et al., 2022).

 

Field studies have provided valuable insights into the effects of straw and fertilizer management on maize yield. In a long-term study on China's Loess Plateau, straw mulching combined with nitrogen fertilization significantly increased soil moisture content, organic carbon, and enzyme activities, resulting in improved soil quality and higher crop yields (Chen et al., 2021). Another study in subtropical China found that low irrigation combined with optimal nitrogen fertilization (N300) enhanced soil enzyme activities and bacterial diversity, which are key indicators of soil health and productivity (Muhammad et al., 2022).

 

5.3 Yield improvement strategies through microbial manipulation

Combining microbial inoculants with straw and fertilizer application can further enhance maize yield. Inoculating maize with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) such as Azospirillum brasilense and Pseudomonas fluorescens, along with nitrogen fertilization, has been shown to increase grain yield and modify rhizosphere microbial communities (Salvo et al., 2018). This approach leverages the synergistic effects of microbial inoculants and nutrient management to boost crop productivity.

 

The use of biofertilizers and organic amendments is another effective strategy to enhance microbial activity and improve crop yield. Biochar amendments, for instance, have been found to increase soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and microbial gene abundance, leading to higher maize yields (Xie et al., 2020). Similarly, the application of organic fertilizers in combination with chemical fertilizers has been shown to sustain soil microbial communities and improve soil fertility and crop productivity over the long term (Wang et al., 2021).

 

6 Case Studies

6.1 Impact of straw incorporation and fertilizer application in a temperate maize cropping system

In temperate regions such as Northeast China, the incorporation of straw and the application of nitrogen (N) fertilizers have shown significant impacts on soil microbial communities and maize yield. A study conducted over five years demonstrated that combining rotary tillage with straw incorporation and moderate N fertilization (187 kg N/ha) significantly improved soil enzyme activities and microbial abundances compared to other treatments. The predominant bacterial and fungal phyla were Proteobacteria and Basidiomycota, respectively. This combination also enhanced soil water content and penetration resistance, which contributed to better soil enzyme activity and microbial community structure (Sui et al., 2020). Another study in the North China Plain found that straw return combined with a modest nitrogen fertilizer input (270 kg N/ha/year) increased soil organic matter fractions and microbial activity, leading to improved soil fertility and potentially higher maize yields. These findings suggest that straw incorporation and balanced fertilization can enhance soil health and crop productivity in temperate maize cropping systems.

 

6.2 Effects in a subtropical maize cropping system

In subtropical climates, such as those found in Guangxi, China, the effects of straw incorporation and nitrogen fertilization on soil microbial communities and maize yield have been extensively studied. A field experiment revealed that straw returning significantly increased soil fertility, enzymatic activities, and the diversity and composition of bacterial and fungal communities compared to traditional planting methods. The dominant bacterial phyla included Proteobacteria, Acidobacterioia, and Nitrospirae, while the fungal phyla were Ascomycota and Mortierellomycota. Nitrogen fertilization further enhanced soil fertility and enzyme activities but decreased the richness of bacterial and fungal communities. The study concluded that continuous straw returning and nitrogen fertilization improved soil fertility and microbial community composition, which could positively impact maize yield in subtropical regions (Figure 1) (Yang et al., 2022). These results highlight the importance of tailored agricultural practices to optimize soil health and crop productivity under different climatic conditions.

 

 

Figure 1 Co-occurrence network diagram between bacterial and fungal taxa at the phyla level and nematode on the class level with soil fertility and enzymes under different treatments (Adopted from Yang et al., 2022)

Image caption: Dot size indicates the value of relative abundances, Positive correlations are labeled with red lines and negative correlations are colored in green, thick lines are high correlations and little correlations have thin lines. Treatments: no nitrogen addition+straw addition (SR-N0), no nitrogen addition + traditional planting (TP-N0), no nitrogen addition + straw addition (SR-200), and traditional planting with nitrogen fertilizer application (TP-N200). TN, SOC, S-UE, S-CL, and S-SC represent total nitrogen content, soil organic carbon content, soil urease activity, soil sucrase activity, and soil cellulase activity (Adopted from Yang et al., 2022)

 

6.3 Integrated practices in low-input maize farming

In low-input or organic farming systems, integrating straw incorporation with minimal fertilizer application can enhance microbial resilience and sustainable yield increases. A study on a wheat-maize rotation system demonstrated that the combination of organic manure or maize straw with NPK fertilizers positively affected soil microbial and nematode communities. The incorporation of straw increased fungal biomass and enhanced the carbon resource flow into the soil food web, thereby improving soil fertility and crop yield. The study also found that organic management practices could effectively enhance the association between microbial and nematode communities, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable farming system (Zhang et al., 2016; Zhan, 2024). Another study emphasized that fertilization regimes, including the use of organic amendments like straw, had a greater impact on soil microbial community structure than crop rotation or growth stage, suggesting that these practices are crucial for maintaining soil health and productivity in low-input farming systems (Guo et al., 2020). These findings underscore the potential of integrated practices to promote sustainable agriculture and improve maize yields in low-input systems.

 

7 Concluding Remarks

This study has demonstrated the significant impact of straw incorporation and fertilizer application on the co-regulation of soil microbial communities and maize yield. The integration of straw into the soil, combined with appropriate levels of nitrogen fertilization, has been shown to enhance soil enzyme activities and microbial diversity, particularly in bacterial and fungal communities. For instance, the activities of enzymes such as β-glucosidase and acid phosphatase were notably improved with straw incorporation and moderate nitrogen fertilization, which in turn increased the abundance of Proteobacteria and Basidiomycota. Additionally, the application of organic amendments like straw and manure has been found to significantly alter soil microbial community structures, promoting beneficial microbial taxa that contribute to soil fertility and crop productivity. The positive correlation between microbial health and maize yield underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced soil ecosystem for sustainable agricultural practices.

 

Future research should continue to explore the intricate interactions between soil microbial communities and agricultural practices. Understanding these interactions at a deeper level can provide insights into optimizing fertilization regimes and straw management practices to enhance soil health and crop yields. Strategies for integrating microbial management into sustainable maize farming practices could include the development of tailored fertilization plans that consider the specific microbial needs of the soil, as well as the use of organic amendments to boost microbial diversity and activity. Additionally, long-term studies are needed to assess the cumulative effects of these practices on soil health and crop productivity over multiple growing seasons. By focusing on the co-regulation of soil microbial communities, we can develop more resilient and productive agricultural systems that support both environmental sustainability and food security.

 

Funding

This work was supported by the College Students' Science and Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program Project (Research on the Physiological Mechanisms of Enhancing Maize Yield and Nutritional Quality through the Interaction and Synergy of Straw Return and Fertilizer #GJ202211439016).

 

Acknowledgments

We are grateful to Dr C. Singh from Puna University for critically reading the manuscript and providing valuable feedback that improved the clarity of the text.

 

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

 

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