multitrophic function
Soil protists are key contributors to ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) through predation, parasitism, and organic matter decomposition. We conducted a factorial microcosm experiment manipulating microbial diversity, plant richness, and drought across 198 microcosms and 812 soil samples. Protist diversity was positively associated with EMF, carbon sequestration, SOM decomposition, and nutrient cycling. Distinct phylum-specific relationships emerged, and drought reshaped microbial networks, with protists acting as keystone taxa enhancing ecosystem resilience. Our findings reveal protists as multitrophic integrators that stabilize soil ecosystems under environmental stress and underscore their critical role in buffering ecosystem functions against global change.
Soil protists are key contributors to ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) through predation, parasitism, and organic matter decomposition. We conducted a factorial microcosm experiment manipulating microbial diversity, plant richness, and drought across 198 microcosms and 812 soil samples. Protist diversity was positively associated with EMF, carbon sequestration, SOM decomposition, and nutrient cycling. Distinct phylum-specific relationships emerged, and drought reshaped microbial networks, with protists acting as keystone taxa enhancing ecosystem resilience. Our findings reveal protists as multitrophic integrators that stabilize soil ecosystems under environmental stress and underscore their critical role in buffering ecosystem functions against global change.
Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment