Assessment of Soil Microbial Communities: Methods and Their Impact on Soil-Plant Interactions

Abstract

The assessment of soil microbial communities is essential for comprehending ecosystem functioning and preserving soil health. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of assessment methods, spanning traditional culture-based techniques to modern molecular approaches like high-throughput sequencing and metagenomics. These methodologies will enable future researchers to analyze microbial community composition, diversity, and functional potential and the intricate relationships between soil microbes and plants. Furthermore, the chapter underscores the significance of plant-microbe interactions in shaping soil microbial communities. By enhancing our understanding of soil microbial dynamics and their interplay with plants, this study fosters the development of strategies for enhancing soil fertility, boosting crop productivity, and fortifying ecosystem resilience. © The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024.