Abstract: This study aimed to analyze the succession of endophytic bacterial communities in postharvest Kuqa-grown apricot. The characteristics of carbon metabolism and the bacterial community composition were investigated by Biolog Eco method and high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that the metabolic activity of endophytic bacteria in Kuqa-grown apricot was obviously higher at the fully ripe stage than at the green ripe stage, and the major carbon sources utilized by the endophytic bacteria were significantly different between the two stages. The percentages of endophytic bacterial communities utilizing amino acids, carboxylic acids and polymeric substances were increased markedly. High-throughput sequencing results showed that 47 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) including 33 genera in 15 orders were obtained. The community structure of endophytic bacteria was different significantly in fully ripe and green ripe apricots. Flavobacteriales, Bacteroidales Clostridiales together accounted for up to 83% of the endophytic bacterial community. Meanwhile, Rhodospirillales, Enterobacteriales and Clostridiales were predominant in fully ripe apricot, accounting for up to 86% the total bacterial community. The percentages of Flavobacterium and Bacteroides were decreased whereas the percentages of Rhodospirillales and Enterobacteriales were increased; however, the percentage of Clostridiales did not significantly change with ripening of apricots. Furthermore, some pathogens that caused fruit soft rot and gastrointestinal disorders in humans were observed. This study can provide a scientific basis to further understand the spoilage mechanism of postharvest Kuche-grown apricot and develop storage and preservation technologies and for proper consumption.

Key words: Kuqa-grown apricot, endophytic bacteria, carbon metabolism characteristics, bacterial community succession