Abstract
Heterotrophic microorganisms derive energy by decomposing organic matter. Their composition and community structure are influenced by environmental factors and interactions. Soil heterotrophic respiration was assessed by establishing vegetation removal plots (Hr) and control plots (Sr). Soil physicochemical properties were analyzed, and the composition and biomass were evaluated using Illumina HiSeq sequencing and PLFA. The pH of Hr exhibited a significant increase (p < 0.05), whereas MC, MBC, SOC, DOC, TN, and AN all showed significant decreases (p < 0.05). PLFA analysis revealed that the biomass of bacteria, fungi, and total microorganisms in Hr was significantly lower than in Sr (p < 0.05). The predominant bacterial phyla were Acidobacteria, Verrucomycota, and Proteobacteria, with Verrucomycota significantly more abundant in Hr. The dominant fungal phyla were Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, both significantly more abundant in Hr. Community assembly was governed primarily by homogeneous selection in both Hr and Sr. The Hr co-occurrence network showed higher complexity, with >60% positive associations. Mantel tests confirmed significant links between soil properties (MC, pH, MBC, SOC, DOC, TN, and AN) and microbial composition. Vegetation removal induced soil heterogeneity and reduced microbial biomass with specific taxa shifts (Verrucomicrobia, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota). Altered soil conditions and carbon resources reorganize microbial structure and function.