Divergence in the tomato rhizosphere microbial community structure driven by three soil types

Soil type is a critical but often overlooked factor influencing tomato productivity in southern China, where diverse soils such as loess, calcareous soil, and laterite are extensively cultivated. Understanding how these soils shape rhizosphere microbial communities and soil nutrient dynamics is essential for improving crop performance. This study provides the first comparative assessment of tomato-associated microbiomes across these major soil types in Guangxi. Our findings reveal that each soil fosters distinct microbial assemblages and enzyme activities, with laterite particularly enriched in beneficial taxa such as Bacillus and associated with enhanced phosphorus availability. These insights highlight the importance of soil-specific microbial processes in supporting tomato growth and offer a scientific basis for selecting and managing soils to optimize productivity. The results also contribute to broader efforts to harness rhizosphere microbiomes for sustainable agricultural improvement.