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Response of Chaetomium sp. to Nitrogen Input and Its Potential Role in Rhizosphere Enrichment of Lycium barbarum

Summary

Goji berries grow better when treated with a beneficial fungus called Chaetomium, especially when combined with proper nitrogen management. This fungus helps regulate nitrogen cycling in the soil and promotes plant growth more effectively than nitrogen fertilizer alone. The research suggests that farmers can reduce nitrogen fertilizer use while maintaining or improving crop productivity by using this fungal inoculant, which is better for the environment.

Background

Lycium barbarum (goji berry) is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant dependent on nitrogen input for productivity. Nitrogen application profoundly influences rhizosphere microbial dynamics, which are critical for soil health and plant performance. Understanding how fungal communities respond to nitrogen levels is essential for sustainable agriculture.

Objective

This study investigated how the rhizosphere fungal community responds to nitrogen input and explored the potential role of beneficial fungi, particularly Chaetomium, in goji berry rhizosphere enrichment. The research aimed to develop synergistic strategies combining nitrogen management with microbial inoculation.

Results

Nitrogen input significantly altered rhizosphere fungal community composition and diversity, with Chaetomium significantly enriched under conventional nitrogen treatment (N2). Chaetomium sp. LC101 inoculation significantly promoted goji berry growth, with root fresh weight, root vitality, and leaf chlorophyll content increasing by 55.10%, 15.69%, and 43.27% respectively under N0 conditions. The strain regulated nitrogen transformation by enhancing urease, nitrite reductase, and polyphenol oxidase activities while inhibiting nitrate reductase activity.

Conclusion

Chaetomium responds sensitively to nitrogen input with enrichment under moderate nitrogen levels and acts as a beneficial rhizosphere fungus promoting plant growth and regulating nitrogen cycling. Synergistic regulation via ‘nitrogen reduction combined with microbial inoculation’ can reduce nitrogen loss, improve yield and quality, and contribute to ecological sustainability in goji berry cultivation.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Field Experiment and Pot Trial Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13081864, PMID: 40871368
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