JOURNAL of Soil Biology and Ecology

Soil microbial diversity and its significance

Author:

M. K. MURALI AND D. J. BAGYARAJ 

Abstract:

Diversity of microorganisms in soil include bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses. These organisms play a very important role in maintaining soil health and fertility. They have a critical role in soil ecosystem functions such as organic matter decomposition; nutrient cycling like nitrogen fixation, phosphorous and potassium solubilization; and suppression of soil-borne plant pathogens. Rhizosphere harbouring higher number of microorganisms compared to soil away from the root significantly enhances plant mineral nutrition. Some fungi form symbiotic association with crop plants and forest trees enhancing their growth and yield. Thus soil microorganisms play a very important role in improving soil health and in turn plant growth. Soil microbes also serve us potential source for the industrial production of antibiotics, vitamins, hormones and enzymes.

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