DISSERTATION RESEARCH: Evaluating the Effect of Plant C and O2 inputs on Structuring Rhizosphere Microbial Communities in Anaerobic Sediments

本研究将探讨不同优势种的沼泽植物群落如何在沼泽沉积物中构建微生物群落，从而改变生态地球化学模式，CO2吸收（或释放）和人类活动导致的大气N输入的处理。 河口沼泽，如这里研究的，在调节C和N循环的作用是全球性的重要性。 此外，确定是否沼泽占主导地位的不同植物物种（互花米草和芦苇）的过程中CO2和N的输入不同，通过其对沉积物微生物群落的影响解决了一个重要的科学问题。试验机理、根系孔隙度、沉积物中微生物群落组成和功能能力。这项研究代表了一种新的方法，以提高湿地植物-微生物相互作用的理解。 它可以为设计沿海湿地恢复项目和管理工作提供有用的信息。

This research will investigate how marsh plant communities with different dominant species might function to structure microbial communities in marsh sediments, thereby altering biogeochemical patterns, CO2 uptake (or release) and processing of atmospheric N inputs resulting from human activities. The role of estuarine marshes, such as those studied here, in regulating C and N cycles is of global importance. Moreover, determining whether marshes dominated by different plant species (Spartina alterniflora and Phragmites australis) process CO2 and N inputs differently via their effects on sediment microbial communities addresses an important scientific question. t mechanisms, root porosity, and in sediment microbial community composition and functional ability. This study represents a novel approach to improving understanding of wetland plant-microbe interactions. It could contribute information useful designing coastal wetland restoration projects and management efforts.