Changes in microbial communities in rhizosphere soil of Arnebia guttata at different altitudes in south region of Xinjiang, China

[Purpose] To investigate the physicochemical properties, microbial diversity, and community composition of the rhizosphere soil of Arnebia guttata at different altitudes, to explore the interaction between the rhizosphere microbial communities and environmental factors, and to provide a basis for the conservation and utilization of its wild resources. [Methods] Using Arnebia guttata from Wushi County in the northwest of the Tarim Basin as the study subject, the soil physicochemical properties, rhizosphere microbial diversity, and community composition were observed at five altitudes (1200 meters, 1225 meters, 1506 meters, 2053 meters, and 2492 meters). [Results] At an altitude of 1506 meters, the maximum values of SMC, AVP, and AVK were observed. TN, AVK, and NO3-N showed a positive correlation with the altitude gradient. The soil pH was acidic, with no significant differences among the altitudes. At 2492 meters, the bacterial and fungal communities were more complex compared to other altitudes, and the microbial diversity was more pronounced. [Conclusion] There are significant differences in the physicochemical properties, microbial community structure, and diversity of the rhizosphere soil of Arnebia guttata at different altitudes, indicating that altitude is one of the primary factors affecting the growth of Arnebia guttata .