Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
4582277 Pedosphere 2006 7 Pages PDF
Abstract

ABSTRACTSoil microorganisms play a central role in decomposing organic matter, in determining the release of mineral nutrients, and in nutrient cycling. Recently, extensive studies have focused on soil microbial diversity. However, understanding the diversity of this complex microbial community in the soil environment is a challenging task. Thus, it is important to master and comprehend appropriate methods for studying soil microbial diversity. Concepts of soil microbial diversity and major methods of study are briefly introduced in this paper. Then, the application of biochemical-based and molecular-based techniques in this area, and their advantages and disadvantages are evaluated. Based on recent related research, perspectives for studying microbial diversity in soils are presented.

Related Topics
Life Sciences Agricultural and Biological Sciences Soil Science