Soil Microbes and their Contribution to Ecosystem

1. Madhu Raina
   Department of Botany, Sri Venkateswara College, Dhaula Kuan, University of Delhi, New Delhi-110021, India
2. Bhavana Sharma
   Department of Botany University of Jammu, Jammu-180006, India
3. Romica Verma
   Department of Botany University of Jammu, Jammu-180006, India
   *Corresponding author: romicaverma92@gmail.com
4. Veenu Kaul
   Department of Botany University of Jammu, Jammu-180006, India

Abstract

Soil biology has achieved an in-depth understanding of soil as a natural resource. However, investigation of its diversity and dynamics particularly in the context of climate change, biodiversity maintenance, sustainability and other ecosystem services is relatively recent and gaining momentum. Both practical and basic approaches in soil biology research are envisaged to substantially expand the services provided by soil microbes. Soil microbial parameters and enzyme activity are key indicators of soil health and fertility. The rising recognition of soil organisms as key participants in global climate change, agricultural, forest and general environmental sustainability, as well as discoveries in the molecular study of both soil fauna and soil flora, has enhanced research prospects. Here, we discuss the possible ecosystem services provided by microbes in the soil. The enormous diversity of soil microbes and their functional aspects are highlighted in the cycling of major biological elements (C, N, P), through biotic and abiotic compartments of the globe. Microbes play an elementary role in the cycling and biological fixation of nitrogen; and the related essential processes. The present chapter, thus, endeavours to focus on understanding ecosystem processes related to the roles of soil microbes.

Keywords: Soil science, microbes, enzyme activity, soil fauna, ecosystem, climate change.