Distinct microbial communities alter litter decomposition rates in a fertilized coastal plain wetland

Human activities have led to increased deposition of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) into soils. Nutrient enrichment soils is known increase plant biomass rates microbial litter decomposition. However, interacting effects hydrologic position associated changes soil moisture can constrain activity lead unexpected nutrient feedbacks on community structure–function relationships. Examining decomposition essential for predicting contributions carbon (C) cycling as atmospheric nutrients persists. This study explored how long-term addition contrasting chemical composition influenced bacterial structure function. We hypothesized that low fertility alters leads higher especially C:N litter, but low-nutrient dry conditions limit high ratio litter. leveraged a fertilization experiment test manipulation (due ditches) affected in nutrient-poor coastal plain wetland. conducted bag characterized litter-associated bulk microbiomes using 16S rRNA sequencing quantified mass losses physicochemical properties. Results revealed distinct communities were involved decomposing more quickly fertilized compared unfertilized under drier conditions, while lower similar between plots. Bacterial part explained rates, status diversity rates. with was wetter plots available nitrate detected, regardless treatment. provides insight composition, decomposition, the potential C loss hydrology interact affect historically ecosystems.