Molecular Soil Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 59-70 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 63 Studies have shown that microbial diversity and composition are critical determinants of SOM decomposition rates and efficiency. For example, the presence of specific microbial taxa such as Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria has been linked to enhanced multifunctionality in soils, including higher rates of organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling (Delgado-Baquerizo et al., 2017). Additionally, agricultural practices that promote microbial diversity, such as organic farming and reduced tillage, have been found to improve SOM content and overall soil health (Doran and Zeiss, 2000; Tahat et al., 2020). Understanding the interactions between microbial communities and SOM is essential for developing strategies to maintain or enhance soil fertility and productivity. 4.3 Impact of microbial decomposition on soil structure and fertility Microbial decomposition significantly impacts soil structure and fertility by breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients that are essential for plant growth. The decomposition process produces humic substances, which contribute to the formation of soil aggregates and improve soil structure (Maron et al., 2018; Sahu et al., 2019). Well-aggregated soils have better aeration, water infiltration, and root penetration, all of which are crucial for healthy plant growth. Moreover, the by-products of microbial decomposition, such as organic acids, can enhance the availability of nutrients like phosphorus and micronutrients, further boosting soil fertility (Delgado-Baquerizo et al., 2017; Bhaduri et al., 2022). The impact of microbial decomposition on soil fertility is also evident in the cycling of key nutrients such as nitrogen and carbon. Microbial processes, including nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification, regulate the availability of nitrogen in the soil, which is a critical nutrient for plant growth (Doran and Zeiss, 2000; Sahu et al., 2019). Similarly, the decomposition of organic matter by microbes releases carbon dioxide, which can be utilized by plants for photosynthesis, and contributes to the formation of stable organic carbon pools that enhance soil fertility over the long term (Maron et al., 2018; Lehmann et al., 2020). Therefore, maintaining a diverse and active microbial community is essential for sustaining soil health and fertility in agricultural and natural ecosystems. 5 Ecological Implications of Microbial Decomposition 5.1 Contribution to carbon cycling and climate change mitigation Microbial decomposition plays a pivotal role in the carbon cycle by breaking down organic matter and releasing carbon dioxide (CO2) back into the atmosphere. This process is crucial for maintaining soil health and fertility. For instance, the decomposition of plant inputs, such as litter and roots, significantly affects soil organic carbon (SOC) pools and microbial biomass. The addition of litter has been shown to stimulate SOC pools, suggesting that aboveground litter inputs can enhance SOC sequestration despite accelerated decomposition rates (Feng et al., 2022). Furthermore, microbial diversity is essential for efficient carbon cycling, as it influences the decomposition of both easily degradable and recalcitrant carbon sources, thereby affecting global CO2 emissions (Maron et al., 2018). The role of microbial communities in carbon cycling is also highlighted by their ability to regulate soil fertility, plant growth, and climate through the turnover of organic matter (Crowther et al., 2019). Understanding the functional traits of microbial communities can improve predictions of soil carbon responses to climate change, thereby aiding in climate change mitigation efforts (Malik et al., 2019). 5.2 Influence on soil biodiversity and ecosystem resilience Microbial decomposition significantly influences soil biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. High microbial diversity promotes soil ecosystem functioning by enhancing the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling. This diversity is crucial for maintaining ecosystem resilience, especially in the face of global changes such as nutrient inputs and climate change (Maron et al., 2018). The composition and diversity of soil microbial communities can shift in response to environmental changes, such as nitrogen addition, which can alter microbial functions and slow carbon cycling, leading to increased SOC sequestration (Tian et al., 2019). Additionally, the interactions between different microbial groups, such as bacteria and fungi, play a critical role in decomposition processes and can affect the overall stability and resilience of soil ecosystems (Hicks et al., 2021). The presence of protists, for example, can enhance microbial-driven CO2 release and litter mass loss, indicating their functional importance in decomposition and carbon cycling (Geisen et al., 2020).
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