Genotype-dependent phosphorus acquisition responses of two soybean genotypes under combined low phosphorus and salt stress: evidence from root traits, exudates and rhizosphere microbiome.

A74 soybean genotype exhibits a significantly stronger phosphorus acquisition response than A6 under combined low phosphorus and salt stress, linked to root traits, exudates, and microbiome.

• Why it matters: Understanding how different soybean genotypes adapt to co-occurring salinity and phosphorus deficiency is crucial for improving crop resilience in saline-alkali soils, which limit productivity.
• What they did: Researchers conducted a controlled pot experiment with two soybean genotypes, analyzing root phenotypes, P acquisition, root exudate metabolomics, and rhizosphere metagenomics across four treatments, identifying key metabolites and microbial taxa.
• The result: A74 maintained a more extensive root-soil interface and superior P status, with naringenin and Sinorhizobium linked to enhanced P acquisition responses, suggesting targeted rhizosphere responses underpin genotype-dependent adaptation.