Differences in root-associated bacterial communities among fine root branching orders of poplar ( Populus × euramericana (Dode) Guinier.)

Background and Aims Root branching leads to morphological and functional heterogeneity of fine roots. However, the structure of soil microbiota associated with root branching orders has never been investigated. Deep insights into rhizosphere microbial community could provide a better understanding of the plant-microbe relationship.