Ecological functions of plant-beneficial microbiomes and their application prospects in sustainable agriculture.

Soil microbial communities form dynamic interaction networks with plants, which influence growth, development, stress tolerance, and ecological adaptability of plants. In recent years, the roles of beneficial micro-biomes, including plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and plant-associated bacteriophages, in agricultural ecosystems have received increasing attention. Beneficial microorganisms can facilitate soil nutrient release, secrete plant hormones, and regulate signaling pathways, thereby establishing symbiotic relationships with plant for healthy host growth. They also play crucial roles in enhancing plant tolerance to salinity, drought, and pest-related stresses. Bacteriophages, as integral components of plant microbiomes, exhibit potential ecological functions, such as modulating host metabolism, boosting plant resistance, and maintaining microbial community balance. However, the mechanisms through which plant-associated microbiomes influence plant physiological traits remain less understood. The application of exogenous microorganisms in agriculture faces many challenges, such as competition from native microbiomes, environmental adaptability, and functional stabi-lity. We summarized the ecological functions of plant-beneficial microbiomes, including bacteriophages, in agricultural systems, highlighting their synergistic roles in soil health maintenance, nutrient cycling optimization, biodiversity conservation, and reducing reliance on chemical inputs. Furthermore, we discussed the complex mechanisms underlying plant-microbiome-environment interactions and proposed strategies for optimizing microbiome functions to promote sustainable development of agriculture and ensuring food security and ecological balance.