Soil Microflora – An Extensive Research

Soil is the most complicated biomaterial present on earth. It is composed of a variety of substances and provides a habitat to various organisms. Different chemical reactions take place in soil that ensures the sustainability of life. Microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, actinomyces and algae are widely distributed in soil. These natural micro flora have several advantages. They contribute to the growth and development of plants, decomposition of organic materials, nutrient cycling, soil nitrification, sustenance of pedological system and production of bioactive compounds. Soil fungi develop mutualistic associations with plants and increase their surface area for absorption. Rhizosphere of soil, the area in which micro flora is present, is rich not only in diverse micro flora but also plant roots and nutrients. Soil pollution and anthropogenic activities used for higher yield of agricultural crops negatively affect the soil micro flora. Pesticides kill micro flora and reduce soil biodiversity. The focus of this chapter is on the advantages of natural flora of soil and various factors causing their degradation. The chapter also sheds light on the changes in micro floral communities due to changes in environment. Towards the end, the future perspectives in which soil micro flora can be used for further benefit of mankind have also been discussed.