Distribution of bacteria and nitrogen-cycling microbial communities along constructed Technosol depth-profiles

► Microbial structure, abundance and activity were studied along Technosol profiles. ► Each layer showed distinct community with diversity decreasing with depth. ► Technosols exhibit decrease in microbial activity and abundance with depth. ► Nitrification in Technosols is related to the abundance of ammonia-oxidizers. ► Technosol properties drive the activity and abundance of N-cycling communities.