Revealing Rhizosphere of Edelweiss (Anaphalis longifolia), Plant Pioneer Species in the Volcanic Mountain Ecosystem in Indonesia

Edelweiss (Anaphalis longifolia (Blume) Blume ex DC.) is a pioneer plant on young volcanic soil rich in sulfur (S), developing a mono-specific forb layer. Unfortunately, their population is threatened by illegal over-harvesting. Hitherto, the autecological understanding of its rhizosphere is limited. The study aimed to observe compounds and functional microbial populations that may play important roles in this challenging environment. The study was conducted in the Kelimutu National Park (Flores, Indonesia), between 1200 and 1600 meters above sea level. Soil samples were collected from both bulk soil and root zone. Chemical analysis for soil and plant tissue samples used gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GCMS). Soil microbial populations were analyzed using plate count and most probable number (MPN) methods. Data revealed that the most abundant root exudates were organic acids, which contribute to the formation of rhizosphere community. Colonization of functional groups is found to be more strongly determined by the rhizosphere assemblage than by elevation. Several substances recognized as phytotoxins may play an important role against pests and diseases in the soil. Data further revealed that rhizosphere assemblage by edelweiss produces substances classified as allelochemical compounds assumedly suppressing other plants. Compounds classified as insect repellents were also found in the leaf tissue. It can be concluded that the success of edelweiss as a pioneer in mono-specific stands on the volcanic soil of high altitude can be attributed to its rhizosphere assisting in reducing availability of S and improving C, K and N.

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17957/IJAB/15.2107

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