Abstract: This study aimed to analyze the diversity of endophytic bacteria in postharvest Kuqa apricot for the purpose of discovering potential microbial resources and their functions. The composition of the endophytic bacterial community was analyzed by high-throughput sequencing. Meanwhile, endophytic bacteria were isolated using the traditional culture method, and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. The enzyme activities of the isolates were tested. High-throughput sequencing results showed that 406 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) affiliated to 94 genera of 9 phyla were observed. Bacteroidetes, Bacillus, Paenibacillus and unclassified bacteria were the most abundant species. A total of 99 isolates were obtained, which were classified into 28 genera in the phyla of Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. In addition, seven genera not detected by high-throughput sequencing and 5 potential novel species were discovered. At the same time, several isolates were found to be capable of producing protease, lipase, cellulase, amylase and pectase, which could provide abundant materials for further mining and development of potential microbial resource and enzymes from Kuqa apricot. The results provide a new idea for studying microbial deterioration of Kuqa apricot.

Key words: Kuqa apricot; endophytic bacteria; diversity