Dark matter of an orchid: metagenome of the microbiome associated with the rhizosphere of Dactylorhiza traunsteineri

Plant microbiota forms complex co-associations with its host, promoting health in natural environments. Root-associated bacteria (RAB) colonize root compartments and can modulate plant functions by producing bioactive compounds as part of their secondary metabolism. We present an in-depth analysis of the rhizosphere-associated microbiome of the endangered marsh orchid Dactylorhiza traunsteineri . Using deep sequencing of 16S rRNA genes, we identified Proteobacteria , Actinobacteria , Myxococcota , Bacteroidota , and Acidobacteria as predominant phyla associated with the rhizosphere of D. traunsteineri . Using deep shotgun metagenomics and de novo assembly, we extracted high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), revealing significant metabolic and biosynthetic potentials of the D. traunsteineri ’s RABs. Our study offers a comprehensive investigation into the microbial community of the D. traunsteineri rhizosphere, highlighting a potential novel source of critical bioactive substances. Our study offers novel insights and a robust platform for future investigations into D. traunsteineri 's rhizosphere, crucial for understanding plant-microbe interactions and aiding conservation efforts for endangered orchids.