Recurring heavy rainfall resulting in degraded-upgraded phases in soil microbial networks that are reflected in soil functioning

Abstract • We assess the recovery of microbial networks underneath crust to repeated rainfall. The network fragmentation after second heavy rain was milder than at first one. Cohesive were related high enzyme activity involved in C, N, and P cycles. Loose Ca, K, Mg, NH 4 organic N. dry-crusted soils collapsed rain. Biological soil crusts (BSCs) are an important multi-trophic component arid ecosystems Mediterranean region. In a mesocosm experiment, authors investigated how interactions among members communities four types sample responded when exposed two simulated extreme events. samples were: covered by Cladonia rangiformis previously hydrated (+BSC+H), C. dried (+BSC?H), uncovered (?BSC+H), (?BSC?H). Network analysis based on co-occurrence patterns microbes; microbes assessed phospholipid fatty acids analysis. further explored relations between networks’ metrics functions denoted enzymatic chemical variables. All exhibited Small world properties, moderate values clustering coefficient eigen centrality, indicating lack hub nodes. ?BSC?H appeared coherent during pre-rain phases they became modular rains, while those +BSC?H kept their connectivity till but this then collapsed. that indicative cohesive tended be characterized loose + all mesocosms except for +BSC?H, one, supporting idea community acclimatization. response rains tendency exhibit degradation-reconstruction phases. collapse crusted only showed beneath areas extremely vulnerable recurring