Soil microbial metabolic profiles in two geomorphological units in a semistable sand-dune ecosystem

► Soil moisture and organic carbon at playa were 2-10-fold higher than interdune. ► Viable fungal and bacterial density at playa were 2-9-fold lower than interdune. ► Microbial activity and biomass at playa were mostly lower than at interdune. ► Utilization rates of carbohydrates and carboxylic acids were lower at playa. ► Utilization rates of the aromatic acid were mostly higher at playa.