Preferential use of organic acids over sugars by soil microbes in simulated root exudation

Sugars and organic acids, primary components in plant root exudates, are thought to enhance microbial decomposition of organic matter in the rhizosphere. However, their specific impacts on microbial activity and nutrient mobilisation remain poorly understood. Here, we simulated passive root exudation to investigate the distinct effects of sugars and organic acids on microbial metabolism in the rhizosphere. We released 13 C-labelled sugars and/or organic acids via reverse microdialysis into intact meadow and forest soils over 6-h. We measured substrate-induced microbial respiration, soil organic matter mineralization, metabolite concentrations, and substrate incorporation into lipid-derived fatty acids. Our results reveal a pronounced microbial preference for organic acids over sugars, with organic acids being removed faster from the exudation spot and preferentially respired by microbes. Unlike sugars, organic acids increased concentrations of microbial metabolic byproducts and cations (K, Ca, Mg) near the exudation spot. Our results challenge the prevailing assumption that sugars are the most readily available and rapidly consumed substrates for soil microbes. Microbial preference for organic acids indicates a trade-off between rapid biomass growth and ATP yield. Our findings underscore the significant role of exudate composition in influencing microbial dynamics and nutrient availability, and emphasize the importance of biotic and abiotic feedback mechanisms in the rhizosphere in regulating root exudation. • Pronounced microbial preference for organic acids over sugars • Fast removal of organic acids from exudation spot and respiration by microbes • Organic acids increased microbial metabolic byproducts and released cations • Microbial metabolism revealed trade-off between rapid biomass growth and ATP yield • Biotic and abiotic rhizosphere feedback mechanisms shape root exudation