Molecular Soil Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 59-70 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 62 interactions can significantly impact decomposition rates. Additionally, the succession of microbial communities during decomposition is often predictable, with certain species dominating at different stages of the process. This predictable pattern of microbial succession highlights the importance of understanding the interactions between different microbial species to better predict and manage decomposition and nutrient cycling in soil ecosystems (Metcalf et al., 2016; Geisen et al., 2020). 4 Soil Health Indicators and Microbial Decomposition 4.1 Definition and key indicators of soil health Soil health is defined as the capacity of soil to function as a vital living system within ecosystem boundaries, sustaining plant and animal productivity, maintaining or enhancing environmental quality, and promoting plant and animal health (Doran and Zeiss, 2000; Yang et al., 2020). This concept extends beyond traditional soil assessments focused solely on crop production to include the role of soil in water quality, climate change, and human health (Lehmann et al., 2020). Key indicators of soil health encompass a range of physical, chemical, and biological properties. Physical indicators include soil structure and porosity, while chemical indicators involve nutrient content and pH levels. Biological indicators, which are increasingly recognized for their importance, include microbial biomass, diversity, and activity, as well as the presence of specific functional groups such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi (Figure 1) (Alkorta et al., 2003; Tahat et al., 2020; Bhaduri et al., 2022). Figure 1 Soil health as a key indicator of ecosystem resilience and stability (Adapted from Bhaduri et al., 2022) Biological indicators are particularly valuable because they provide insights into the dynamic processes occurring within the soil. For instance, microbial diversity and activity are crucial for nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and the suppression of soil-borne diseases (Sahu et al., 2019; Tahat et al., 2020). Advances in molecular techniques have enhanced our ability to assess microbial communities and their functions, allowing for more precise monitoring of soil health (Alkorta et al., 2003). These indicators are essential for developing sustainable land management practices that maintain or improve soil health over time. 4.2 Relationship between microbial activity and soil organic matter Microbial activity plays a pivotal role in the decomposition of soil organic matter (SOM), which is a key component of soil health. Soil microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes, break down organic residues, converting them into simpler compounds that can be utilized by plants and other soil organisms (Delgado-Baquerizo et al., 2017; Sahu et al., 2019). This process not only recycles essential nutrients but also contributes to the formation of stable organic matter fractions that enhance soil structure and water-holding capacity (Maron et al., 2018). The relationship between microbial activity and SOM is complex and influenced by various factors, including soil type, climate, and land management practices (Trivedi et al., 2016; Yang et al., 2020).
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