Background: Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) rhizosphere microbial activity and nutrient cycling are regulated by soil carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) stoichiometry. Irrigation by alternate wetting and drying (AWD) causes recurrent fluctuations in soil moisture that may alter these processes.
Objective: To evaluate the effects of AWD induced soil moisture changes on the rhizosphere C:N:P stoichiometry, microbial community dynamics and groundnut productivity.
Methods: Published studies on AWD irrigation, soil nutrient stoichiometry, microbial ecology and groundnut cultivation were synthesized and evaluated.
Results: AWD alters the physicochemical properties of the soil, which in turn influences the availability of C, N and P and modifies the microbial community composition. Rewetting events stimulate microbial activity via the Birch effect, alter enzyme production, affect Bradyrhizobium-mediated nitrogen fixation, and enhance phosphorus release from soil aggregates. Such changes affect nutrient-use efficiency, root growth and pod yield.
Conclusion: Changes in groundnut rhizosphere C:N:P stoichiometry driven by AWD significantly influence microbial functions and nutrient cycling in groundnut systems. Combining advanced microbial analyses and precision water management can enhance productivity and sustainability under variable climatic conditions.