Microscale distribution and function of soil microorganisms in the interface between rhizosphere and detritusphere

► A novel experimental design to study the interface between rhizosphere and detritusphere. ► Soil, plant and residues differed in δ13C signatures and δ13C of PLFA was measured. ► Microbial community composition showed distinct gradients from roots and residues. ► Microbes in the interface incorporated more residue C than root C.