Soil Microbial Diversity: Present and Future Considerations

Microbes are the most diverse group of soil organisms, yet very little is known about them. Until recently, research has focused on those organisms that are culturable; however, a wealth of information is now being collected from both culturable and, as yet, unculturable organisms. Functions of the soil microbial population impact many soil processes and, therefore, productivity. Without microbes and their functions, there would be no other life forms. A greater understanding of soil microbial ecology can only benefit land management decisions. These organisms are the basis for transformations that enable life to continue; thus, knowledge of their interactions, roles, and functions are vital to our understanding of soils and sustainability. Our objective was to assess the areas of current soil microbiological research that will most influence future research. New research methods involving molecular techniques will extend our understanding of taxonomic and functional diversity in soil systems. The development of molecular techniques for microbial identification, coupled with traditional methods are promising areas for continued research. The application of this type of information is limitless, as are the avenues of exploration. Agricultural science, and its impact on agricultural and environmental policy, will benefit from this expanding knowledge base.