Editorial: Unveiling microbiome interactions and functions in soil hotspots

a defining characteristic of hotspot activity. Similarly, Wang et al. show that forest harvesting strategies significantly influence microbial diversity in Larix gmelinii forests, revealing the sensitivity of soil microbiomes to management practices. Jiang et al. further demonstrate that intercropping modifies rhizosphere microbial communities, although these effects remain strongly mediated by environmental conditions. Together, these studies indicate that while management practices shape microbial assemblages, environmental drivers such as temperature, soil chemistry, and moisture often play a dominant role. Soil hotspots therefore represent dynamic systems, continuously responding to fluctuating abiotic conditions.Nitrogen cycling is a central process within soil hotspots. Sun et al. show that AM fungi selectively suppress ammonia oxidizing bacteria and Nitrospira sp., while having limited impact on ammonia oxidizing archaea. This selective regulation suggests that mycorrhizal associations can reshape nitrification pathways and influence nitrogen retention. Soil microbial hotspots, though microscale in dimension, exert macroscopic impacts on ecosystem functioning. The 21 studies included in this Research Topic collectively demonstrate that hotspot dynamics are governed by complex interactions among environmental drivers, biological processes, and anthropogenic pressures. As global change accelerates, understanding and managing these critical microenvironments will be essential for ensuring soil sustainability, food security, and climate stability.