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A microbially formed soil cover known as desert crust carpets vast regions of land in the arid climates. An accretionary phenomenon in a generally erosional setting, it stabilizes soil and enhances its quality. It is potentially applicable to reclamation of unconsolidated soil in desert regions of the world. This paper reviews the work on microbial crusts, how they develop and contribute to soil quality, and what environmental variables enhance or impede their growth. Microbiological issues relating to the identification, isolation, and culturing of important members of this microbial community are discussed. Some practical problems are considered and suggestions for further research made.
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Campbell et al. (1989) studied this question.
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