The mysterious root rot disease affecting Chinese hickory (Carya cathayensis) trees has become a pressing issue, threatening the sustainability of the industry and the regional ecosystem. This study aims to uncover the underlying causes of this disease by analyzing the differences in the fungal microbiome between healthy and diseased trees.
Chinese hickory, known for its valuable kernels rich in oil, protein, and minerals, has gained economic importance. However, the increased reliance on chemical fertilizers and herbicides has led to soil imbalances and a decline in biodiversity, creating an ecosystem crisis.
The root rot disease, characterized by chlorosis, yellowing leaves, and eventual tree death, has spread rapidly, causing substantial economic losses. Understanding the microbial community composition is crucial for developing effective control strategies.
This study systematically collected root tissue, rhizosphere soil, and bulk soil samples from healthy and diseased trees. High-throughput sequencing was used to analyze the fungal community structure and dynamics. The results revealed differences in fungal community composition between healthy and diseased trees, with potential pathogenic fungi identified.
The findings showed that Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the dominant fungal phyla, accounting for over 90% of the fungal community. The relative abundance of these phyla varied between healthy, diseased, and dead trees, suggesting a link to the onset of root rot.
Interestingly, certain fungal genera, such as Xylaria, Ilyonectria, and Codinaea, were found only in the root tissues of dead trees, while others, like Chaetomium and Trichoderma, were abundant in diseased trees, indicating their potential role as biocontrol agents.
In contrast, the root tissues and rhizosphere soil of healthy trees were rich in beneficial fungal genera, such as Laccaria, Amanita, and Russula, which may enhance pathogen resistance.
The study also analyzed the co-occurrence networks of bacteria and fungi, revealing that a harmonious coexistence of these microorganisms is crucial for preventing root rot.
Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the fungal microbiome differences between healthy and diseased Chinese hickory trees, offering a foundation for developing ecological control strategies and ensuring the sustainability of the industry and the regional ecosystem.
