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Microorganisms - Science topic

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What are the roles of microorganisms in environmental sustainability and role of microbes in improving environmental quality?
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Microorganisms play crucial roles in environmental sustainability by contributing to nutrient cycling, soil fertility, and waste decomposition. They break down organic matter, releasing nutrients that support plant growth and soil health. Additionally, microbes are essential in bioremediation, the process of using living organisms to remove or neutralize pollutants in soil, water, and air. Certain bacteria, fungi, and algae can metabolize harmful substances like oil spills or industrial chemicals, mitigating environmental damage. Moreover, microbes are involved in nitrogen fixation, carbon sequestration, and maintaining ecosystem balance. Harnessing their abilities through biotechnological applications can lead to innovative solutions for environmental challenges, promoting a healthier and more sustainable planet.
e.g.: Bacteria in the genus Rhizobium form symbiotic relationships with leguminous plants, facilitating nitrogen fixation and enhancing soil fertility. Methanotrophic bacteria consume methane, a potent greenhouse gas, mitigating its impact on climate change. In bioremediation, species like Pseudomonas and Bacillus break down pollutants such as hydrocarbons in contaminated soil and water, aiding in environmental cleanup efforts. Additionally, certain fungi, like mycorrhizae, form mutualistic associations with plant roots, improving nutrient uptake and promoting plant growth in degraded ecosystems
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I intend to utilize a 2-inch plant, since it takes about a year for a plant to grow from the root. So, I must remove the native microorganisms (that is already present in the plants and their roots without killing the plants). I am planning to use the plant for understanding PGPR.
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Nharmadhaa Manickam 1) The problem is that there are many microorganisms inside the plants too. Only plants grown in vitro from meristema can be accepted as free from such microbes. 2) Any antiseptic will affect plant tissues mush more than microbes. 3) Microbiota characterisation before PGPR application is the possible way of working with non-sterile plants.
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What are the roles of microorganisms in the recycling of carbon in the ecosystem and role of microorganisms in the decomposition of organic matter?
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Soil microorganisms, by actively participating in the decomposition and transformation of organic matter through diverse metabolic pathways, play a pivotal role in carbon cycling within soil systems and contribute to the stabilization of organic carbon, thereby influencing soil carbon storage and turnover. Soil microbes can break down plant organic matter to carbon dioxide or convert it to dissolved organic carbon (DOC) compounds. This leads either to long-term carbon storage, because DOC can bind to soil particles, or to the release of carbon back to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. Microbes are critical in the process of breaking down and transforming dead organic material into forms that can be reused by other organisms. This is why the microbial enzyme systems involved are viewed as key 'engines' that drives the Earth's biogeochemical cycles. Microorganisms help return minerals and nutrients back to the environment so that the materials can then be used by other organisms. As the bacteria and fungi decompose. dead matter, they also respire. Plants constantly exchange carbon with the atmosphere. Plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and much of this carbon dioxide is then stored in roots, permafrost, grasslands, and forests. Plants and the soil then release carbon dioxide when they decay. Soil microorganisms promote the decomposition of organic matter by secreting enzymes. The changes of biochar on soil enzyme activity are affected by the interaction between biochar, enzymes, and enzyme substrates. The active sites of biochar can absorb or desorb enzymes and their substrates. Soil organisms, including micro-organisms, use soil organic matter as food. As they break down the organic matter, any excess nutrients (N, P and S) are released into the soil in forms that plants can use. This release process is mineralization.
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How microorganisms maintain the health of both organisms and ecosystems and role of microorganisms in maintaining soil fertility?
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Dr Abdelhak Maghchiche thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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How are living organisms important for improving soil fertility and role of microorganisms in formation of soil organic matter in climate resilient agriculture?
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Soil compositions can influence climate, as sandy regions of the planet often have low microbial counts and produce less vegetation. This results in high temperatures due to increased solar absorption. In contrast, areas with high microbial counts typically boast a dense vegetation canopy, which reduces temperatures by minimizing solar absorption. These imbalances in temperature components contribute to changes in climate.
Improper maintenance of microbial counts, often caused by farming practices, can lead to infertile soil, resulting in dry dust bowls. Therefore, soil conservation is a significant responsibility for humans to uphold a balanced environment capable of supporting life.
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What is the role of useful microbes in recycling minerals and nutrients and role of useful microbes in recycling minerals and nutrients?
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Fungi and bacteria break down organic matter in dead plants and animals, converting it to simple soluble minerals, water, and gases. Later these are then released into the soil, water bodies, and air.Microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling in soil. The composition and activity of microbiota impact the soil quality status, health, and nutrient enrichment. Microbes are essential for nutrient mobility and absorption. Through their varied functions, they stimulate plant growth and reduce diseases. Microorganisms recycle nutrients by decomposing the organic waste materials present in the dead and decaying materials of animals and plants, and also degrade the organic pollutants present in the industrial as well as municipal wastes. Without microbes, the earth would be filled with corpses. Bacteria break down (or decompose) dead organisms, animal waste, and plant litter to obtain nutrients. But microbes don't just eat nature's waste, they recycle it. The type of organism that recycles nutrients in a food web is decomposers. Decomposers are organisms that consume dead or decaying matter and recycle the nutrients back into the soil. Worms, bacteria, and fungi are examples of decomposers. Decomposers play a critical role in the flow of energy through an ecosystem. They break apart dead organisms into simpler inorganic materials, making nutrients available to primary producers. Bacteria break down dead organisms, animal waste, and plant litter to obtain nutrients. But microbes don't just eat nature's waste, they recycle it. The process of decomposition releases chemicals that can be used to build new plants and animals.
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What does the recycling process involve and role of microorganisms in recycling of carbon and nitrogen through air and soil?
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Recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products. Recycling can benefit your community, the economy, and the environment. Products should only be recycled if they cannot be reduced or reused. Recycling is the process of collection and conversion of waste into useful and new products. Recycling is done to minimize the pollution and the waste generated. It helps in the converse the environment. Microorganisms and fungi break down wood and return carbon to the biogeochemical cycles. If these organisms become absent, carbon would accumulate in the wood, where it could not be recycled into the environment. The fixation of nitrogen is dependent on microorganisms mostly through biological nitrogen fixation. Microbes and fungi decompose dead animals, plants and matter. When they do so, they release carbon dioxide into the air due to respiration and contribute to the carbon cycle. In the soil and ocean there are certain microbes that have the ability to convert ammonia into nitrites. This contributes to the nitrogen cycle. Microbes are critical in the process of breaking down and transforming dead organic material into forms that can be reused by other organisms. This is why the microbial enzyme systems involved are viewed as key 'engines' that drives the Earth's biogeochemical cycles. Plants absorb carbon from the environment in photosynthesis and return it in respiration. Animals obtain their carbon by eating plants; they release carbon in respiration. Micrororganisms return carbon to the environment when they decompose dead plants and animals. Bacteria play a central role: Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which convert atmospheric nitrogen to nitrates. Bacteria of decay, which convert decaying nitrogen waste to ammonia. Nitrifying bacteria, which convert ammonia to nitrates/nitrites. Microorganisms play a dominant role in the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients.
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What is the role of microorganisms in the decomposition of organic matter and the recycling of carbon and role of microorganisms in the breakdown of organic matter?
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Dr Ania Isandra thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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I am communicating with other researchers (related to my field of specialization which is biology, fungal diversity, effective and beneficial microbes), and I am sending them this request:
"My two papers will be published in a Web of Science Indexed Journal: 1. Enhancing Organic Agricultural Production Through Beneficial Microorganism and Waste-Water Utilization Technology: A Concept Project and Future’s Thinking Approach 2. Symbiotic Fungal Biodiversity, Structure, Role, and Benefits to their Host Plants - Discovering Microbes with Potential Agricultural Significance: A Literature Probe If you have recent related research for publication, you MAY CONSIDER CITING these articles too. I am presently working on similar research undertakings, if you have recent publication that I MAY CITE, please let me know."
My question is, is it ethical for me to invite other researchers to cite my research works?
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I'm not sure this would really be viewed as unethical, but I would consider it a inappropriate were I to receive such a communication.
However it would be fine if you sent the references and just said you were sending because you thought these publications might be of interest to them. They can then choose whether or not to cite them.
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How do microorganisms that cause decay decomposition release carbon dioxide back to the atmosphere and microbes are used to help reduce carbon buildup in the atmosphere?
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Microorganisms play both the role in the carbon cycle, contributing to the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) through decay and decomposition, and the reduction of carbon buildup through processes such as carbon sequestration. Through decomposition, microorganisms break down organic matter, releasing carbon stored within it back into the atmosphere as CO2. On the other hand, certain microbes facilitate carbon sequestration by forming symbiotic relationships with plants, fixing atmospheric CO2 into organic molecules through photosynthesis, and stabilizing carbon in soil organic matter or biochar. Additionally, engineered microbes are being explored for carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, offering potential solutions to mitigate climate change by capturing CO2 from the atmosphere or industrial emissions and converting it into stable forms for long-term storage. Harnessing the capabilities of these diverse microorganisms presents promising avenues for addressing carbon emissions and reducing atmospheric CO2 levels.
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Does microbial decomposition remove carbon from the atmosphere and role played by microorganisms in the cycling of carbon in the atmosphere?
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decomposition? No
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What is the role of flora fauna and microorganisms in soil formation and role of microorganisms in environmental sustainability?
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Dr Nicky Hetherington thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Can beneficial microorganisms improve crop productivity and which microorganisms are used in agriculture to increase soil fertility as by their help?
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Dr Victor Manuel Moya Iglesias thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Horizontal gene transfer is a fundamental mechanism driving genetic diversity in microorganisms, allowing them to rapidly adapt to diverse environmental challenges and exploit new ecological opportunities. Understanding the dynamics and implications of HGT is crucial for elucidating microbial evolution, diversity, and the interactions between microorganisms and their environments.
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Although horizontal gene transfer is well known in microorganism, however it has been observed in plants but less common compared to microorganisms. It can occur between different plant species or even between plants and microorganisms. For example, there is evidence of genes related to nitrogen fixation being transferred between plants and bacteria.
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Povidone iodine is cheap and active against all type of micro organism including bacteria,virus, fungus and protozoa; with no risk of developing resistance. I have been using 2.5% topical povidone ( 10% diluted to 2.5%) iodine for common type of conjunctivitis successfully for the 10 years. Now a days 5% ophthalmic preparation is available which is more costly than topical preparation. But the most of the ophthalmologist are not interested to use this cheap drug in external ocular infection.
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Prescribing different costly ophthalmic antibiotics for conjunctivitis instead of a povidone iodine preparation depends on various factors, including the nature of the infection, patient factors, and healthcare provider preferences. Here are some potential advantages of using ophthalmic antibiotics over povidone iodine for treating .conjunctivitis,Targeted Antibiotic Therapy,Rapid Symptom Relief, Prevention of Complications, Reduced Risk of Allergic Reactions, Preservation of Normal Flora, Convenience and Ease of Use, Guidelines and Clinical Practice, While ophthalmic antibiotics may be more costly than povidone iodine preparations, their targeted antimicrobial activity, rapid symptom relief, and potential to prevent complications justify their use in certain cases of bacterial conjunctivitis.
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How do they propagate within populations?
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You also can get proteins that can sequester the antibiotics.
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We can see microorganisms under the microscope. Can we also see microorganisms in the intestine? Intestinal flora is important. Is there artificial intelligence that monitors which beneficial and harmful microorganisms are colonizing our intestines?
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Yes, we can see microorganisms in the intestine using techniques such as microscopy and staining methods, but these are typically used in research settings rather than for routine monitoring of intestinal flora in individuals.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are increasingly being used to analyze microbiome data, which includes the diverse community of microorganisms living in our intestines. Researchers are developing AI algorithms to help identify and classify the different types of microorganisms present in the gut, including beneficial and harmful species. This can provide valuable insights into how the microbiome affects human health and may lead to personalized interventions to improve gut health. However, the technology is still evolving, and more research is needed to fully understand and utilize AI in this context.
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Subject: Discover Sustainability: Call for Papers – Topical Collection Name (IF: 2.6) (Springer Nature)
Plant Growth-Promoting Microorganisms (PGPMs): Applications and Mechanisms in Sustainable Agricultural, Horticultural Sciences and Soil Science
Springer Nature is launching a new series of open access journals, the journal "Discover Sustainability" being one of them. Discover Sustainability is a completely open access journal, which means that its contents are freely available and can be accessed by a world audience.
I am currently serving as a Guest Editor and would like to invite you and your team to contribute to my Topical Collection titled " Plant Growth-Promoting Microorganisms (PGPMs): Applications and Mechanisms in Sustainable Agricultural, Horticultural Sciences and Soil Science ". I believe that your research would be a great fit for this Topical Collection.
[Short instruction for the TC]
The submission deadline for this collection is 31/10/2024. You can submit your manuscript any time before that, and all articles published by Discover Sustainability are made freely and permanently accessible online immediately upon publication. You can access the Topical Collection homepage via the following link:
To submit your manuscript for consideration at Discover Sustainability as part of this Topical Collection, please follow the steps detailed on this Submission Guidelines. When submitting a manuscript, you will need to indicate that you are submitting your manuscript to a Collection. To do so, on the ‘Topical Collection Name " Topical Collection from the drop-down list. Authors should also express their interest in the Collection in their cover letter.
If this Call for Participation receives your favorable consideration, we look forward to our future collaboration.
Best wishes,
Dr. M. H. Shahrajabian
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Hi all,
I have just started to learn about bioinformatics and I need help with it.
I have enriched some microbes from wastewater anaerobic sludge and sent them for 16S rRNA sequencing.
Based on the QC result I got after running trimmomatic, I am still not able to get a good quality sequence. The following is the code I ran for trimmomatic. Can you all help me with this?
trimmomatic PE -threads 2 -phred33 \
Raw160823_1.fastq.gz Raw160823_2.fastq.gz \
Raw160823_1P.fastq.gz Raw160823_1F.fastq.gz Raw160823_2P.fastq.gz Raw160823_2F.fastq.gz \
HEADCROP:10 SLIDINGWINDOW:4:30 MINLEN:50
Thank you very much!
Regards,
Kai
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you can use cutadapt or prinseqlite in bash terminal, these are having quality trimming options.
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What is microbial biomass on Earth and can we estimate the value of soil microbial biomass 'Carbon' and 'nitrogen' separately, from total soil microbes biomass?
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Hello, the microbial biodiversity in soil depends from geographical regions can variate more than 3000 type strains of microorganisms (what about non cultiveble forms?). The count of microorganisms highly variate from how deepest you can take the soil sample. The amount of microorgaanisms even with estimatin you can not calculate. Even if you try to calculate that the value that you receive will be far from reality. It will be samething lake X -+ 3000000%.
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What are the factors that will influence the growth of microorganisms in an environment rich in carbon and iron and role of microorganisms in decomposition and soil fertility?
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Dr Himanshu Tiwari thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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How does elevated carbon dioxide affect the ecosystem and an increase in the microorganisms in the soil affect the soil quality?
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Dr Himanshu Tiwari thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Do microorganisms constitute the majority of biomass on Earth and applications of microbial biomass and biomass of bacteria on Earth?
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Respected Sir,
Microorganisms indeed constitute a significant portion of biomass on Earth, although estimates vary depending on the environment and the definition of biomass used. Microorganisms include bacteria, archaea, fungi, protists, and viruses, and collectively, they play crucial roles in various ecosystems and biochemical processes. While it's challenging to precisely quantify the total biomass of microorganisms, they are estimated to represent a substantial fraction of Earth's total biomass.
Here are some applications of microbial biomass and the biomass of bacteria on Earth:
Bioremediation:Microbial biomass is utilized in bioremediation processes to degrade and detoxify environmental pollutants. Certain bacteria and fungi have the ability to metabolize contaminants such as hydrocarbons, heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals, contributing to the cleanup of contaminated soils, water bodies, and industrial sites.
Biogas Production: Microbial biomass is used in anaerobic digestion processes to produce biogas, a renewable energy source composed mainly of methane and carbon dioxide. Methanogenic bacteria break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen, producing methane-rich biogas that can be used for electricity generation, heating, or transportation fuels.
Biofertilizers:Certain bacteria and fungi are used as biofertilizers to enhance soil fertility and plant growth in agriculture. These microbial inoculants can fix atmospheric nitrogen, solubilize phosphorus, produce plant growth-promoting hormones, or enhance nutrient uptake by plants, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and improving soil health and productivity.
Fermentation:Microbial biomass is employed in fermentation processes to produce various products, including alcoholic beverages, dairy products, bread, pickles, vinegar, and biofuels. Yeasts, bacteria, and fungi convert sugars and other organic substrates into valuable products through fermentation, offering economic and environmental benefits.
Enzyme Production: Microbial biomass serves as a source of enzymes for industrial and biotechnological applications. Microorganisms produce a wide range of enzymes with diverse functions, including cellulases, proteases, lipases, amylases, and pectinases, which are used in industries such as food processing, textile manufacturing, detergent production, and biofuel production.
Biomedical Research: Bacterial biomass is widely used as model organisms in biomedical research to study fundamental biological processes, genetics, physiology, and pathogenesis. Bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and various strains of Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Lactobacillus are commonly used in laboratory settings for experimental studies and biotechnological applications.
These are just a few examples of the diverse applications of microbial biomass and bacteria on Earth. Given their ubiquity, metabolic diversity, and adaptability, microorganisms play essential roles in numerous natural and engineered systems, making them valuable resources for various scientific, industrial, and environmental endeavors.
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I've been doing some microbiology related work lately, but haven't had too much insight into this, and I knew more about plant ecology before. before, so I'm asking a technical question to you all.
I have recently been given a microbial sequencing dataset based on the 16s method, but I have found that this method does not seem to allow for accurate absolute quantification of microorganisms, what factors affect this? Is it some step in the PCR process? Or is it the high throughput sequencing process? And while exploring this question I learnt about qPCR technology, if we have the right markers, is it possible to get the total amount of microbial in a sample and then get the absolute abundance of the community through relative abundance.
Thanks for any replies!
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1) Selecting a hypervariable region is crucial in quantifying bacterial community from 16S rRNA gene copy abundance. No single region can accurately quantify all bacterial phyla present in an environmental sample. The choice of region (e.g., V3 or V9) depends on the specific bacterial phyla being targeted.
For example, if you are interested in quantifying the abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in a soil sample using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, you may choose the V4 hypervariable region. However, if your focus shifts to Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria, the V1-V2 region might be more suitable. The choice of hypervariable region depends on the bacterial phyla you want to target for accurate quantification in your environmental sample.
2) Why select a specific region from the 16S rRNA gene? Many sequencing platforms, such as Illumina, lack the capability to sequence the entire length of the 16S rRNA gene (~1500 bp). However, PacBio currently shows promise in overcoming this limitation.
3) Different bacterial species have varying numbers of 16S rRNA gene copies per genome. This can lead to discrepancies in quantification when using 16S rRNA sequencing as a measure of microbial abundance.
For example; There is a variable 16S rRNA gene copy numbers in Escherichia coli and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Escherichia coli typically has about 7 copies of the 16S rRNA gene per genome, while Mycobacterium tuberculosis has only one copy. If both species are present in a microbial community and are quantified solely based on 16S rRNA sequencing, the higher copy number in E. coli might lead to an overestimation of its abundance compared to M. tuberculosis, even if their actual abundance in the sample is similar.
4) Identifying a single perfect conserved region in the 16S rRNA gene that would enable PCR primer design to capture the entire bacterial diversity is not feasible. The process of PCR amplification (nature of PCR primer), which is commonly used in 16S rRNA sequencing, can introduce biases. Certain bacterial taxa may be preferentially amplified over others, leading to inaccurate quantification.
For example; the 16S rRNA primer set, 515F/806R primer pair, was designed to amplify a broad range of bacterial taxa. However, it has been shown to have biases towards Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes, while underrepresenting others like Actinobacteria and Verrucomicrobia.
5) It is difficult to establish universal standards for calibrating 16S rRNA sequencing data to absolute microbial abundance due to the complexities of microbial communities and variations in DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequencing protocols.
For example, one laboratory might employ a method that efficiently lyses certain bacterial cell types, resulting in higher DNA yield, while another laboratory might use a different method that is less effective for lysing those same cells (especially when working with marine sediments). Consequently, variations in DNA extraction efficiency can lead to differences in the amount of DNA extracted from microbial samples, affecting the accuracy and reproducibility of microbial abundance estimates obtained through 16S rRNA sequencing.
Hope this helps.
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How are microorganisms important in nutrient availability and transformation in the soil and role of microorganisms in mineral transformation?
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Soil microbial metabolism boosts plant nutrition by converting recalcitrant forms of N, P, and S to forms that are more bioavailable for plant uptake. Beneficial microorganisms have been shown to play a role in atmospheric nitrogen fixation, organic wastes and residues decomposition, detoxification of pesticides, suppression of plant diseases and soil-borne pathogens, enhancement of nutrient cycling, and production of bioactive compounds such as vitamins, hormones. As microorganisms help break down organic matter, they release essential nutrients and carbon dioxide into the soil, fix nitrogen and help transform nutrients into mineral forms that plants can use through a process of mineralization. The beneficial interactions of these microbes with the plants include the nutrients supply to crops, plant growth stimulation, producing phytohormones, biocontrol of phytopathogens, improving soil structure, bioaccumulation of inorganic compounds, and bioremediation of metal-contaminated soils. Minerals provide energy and nutrients to support microbial growth and functions. Microbes affect dissolution, transformation and formation of minerals through metabolic activities. These interactions between minerals and microbes substantially determine the habitability of the Earth. Microorganisms are responsible for the degradation of organic matter, which controls the release of plant nutrients, but is also important for the maintenance of soil structure and sustainability of soil quality for plant growth. Soil microbes play an essential role in the environment by contributing to the release of key nutrients from primary minerals that are required not only for their own nutrition but also for that of plants. Microorganisms increase the source of nitrogen in the soil, or they can supply it directly to the plant, as they have the ability to take and set nitrogen from the atmosphere. Thanks to microorganisms, there is an increase in the bioavailability of phosphorus in the soil. The soil microbial population releases exoenzymes (1), which depolymerize the dead organic matter (2). The microbial decomposers assimilate the monomers (3) and either mineralize these into inorganic compounds like carbon dioxide or ammonium (4) or use the monomers for their biosynthetic needs. The conversion of the organic form of nitrogen into inorganic form by heterotrophic soil microorganisms are termed as nitrogen mineralization. In contrast, the transformation of readily available inorganic form into bound organic form is immobilization. Soil microorganisms, by actively participating in the decomposition and transformation of organic matter through diverse metabolic pathways, play a pivotal role in carbon cycling within soil systems and contribute to the stabilization of organic carbon, thereby influencing soil carbon storage and turnover.
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What are types of microorganisms in soil and why are they important and role of bacteria in maintaining soil fertility?
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Soil microorganisms can be grouped into bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, algae, protozoa, and nematodes. Apart from the dead plant or animal residues in soils, SOM is composed of a significant content of living microorganisms and their dead fractions. Soil microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, and archaea, perform vital ecosystem functions, such as decomposition and nutrient cycling, and form symbiotic relationships with plants. N-deposition can alter soil microbial community structure and function in multiple ways. Microorganisms help to generate oxygen and carbon dioxide, as well as fix atmospheric nitrogen into useable forms for multiple organisms. They also help animals ingest food by being part of the gut microbiome. Some species of microbe are symbiotic in nature. These organisms have many tasks, and are central to crop fertility, purifying the environment from pollutants, regulating carbon storage stocks and production/consumption of many significant green house gases, such as methane and nitrous oxides. Within food plant cropping systems, microorganisms provide vital functions and ecosystem services, such as biological pest and disease control, promotion of plant growth and crop quality, and biodegradation of organic matter and pollutants. Bacteria increase soil fertility through nutrient recycling such as carbon, nitrogen, sulphur and phosphorus. Bacteria also help in the decomposition of dead organic matter and then give out simple compounds in the soil, which can be used up by plants. Soil microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, and archaea, perform vital ecosystem functions, such as decomposition and nutrient cycling, and form symbiotic relationships with plants. N-deposition can alter soil microbial community structure and function in multiple ways.
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Can microbes help save the planet and microorganisms are involved in waste treatment and environmental cleanup?
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Dr Harsh Sable thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Dear colleagues,
I defended my Ph.D. thesis in October 2016 and now I am looking for a postdoctoral position in microscopy (AFM, TEM, SEM) and biophysics of microorganisms (especially, viruses, I like them :)).
My CV is attached. If there is an open position in your lab, please, write me.
Best regards,
Denis  
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That sounds like an exciting field! Here are some steps you can take to find a postdoctoral position in microscopy and physics of microorganisms:
  1. Identify Research Groups: Look for research groups or labs that specialize in microscopy and physics of microorganisms. Search university websites, scientific journals, and research databases for relevant publications and projects.
  2. Networking: Attend scientific conferences, workshops, and seminars related to microscopy, microbiology, and physics. Network with researchers in the field and express your interest in potential postdoctoral opportunities. You can also reach out to professors or researchers whose work you admire to inquire about available positions.
  3. Online Resources: Explore online platforms and job boards dedicated to academic and research positions. Websites like Nature Careers, Science Careers, and ResearchGate often list postdoctoral positions in various scientific disciplines.
  4. Collaborations: Consider collaborating with researchers who are conducting interdisciplinary work at the intersection of microscopy and microbiology. Collaborative projects can provide valuable insights and connections within the scientific community.
  5. Tailored Applications: Customize your application materials, including your CV, cover letter, and research statement, to highlight your expertise in microscopy and physics of microorganisms. Emphasize relevant skills, research experience, and achievements that align with the requirements of the position.
  6. Funding Opportunities: Look for postdoctoral fellowship programs or research grants that support projects in your area of interest. Many funding agencies offer fellowships specifically for early-career researchers pursuing research in microscopy, microbiology, or physics.
  7. Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest developments and advancements in microscopy techniques, microbiology, and physics research. Familiarize yourself with emerging trends and technologies that could enhance your research interests and expertise.
  8. Persistence and Patience: Finding the right postdoctoral position can take time and persistence. Be proactive in your search, maintain a positive attitude, and keep refining your skills and qualifications to increase your competitiveness as a candidate.
By following these steps and leveraging your expertise in microscopy and physics, you can increase your chances of securing a rewarding postdoctoral position in this exciting field of research.
l Perhaps this protocol list can give us more information to help solve the problem.
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What role do microorganisms play in carbon transformation and role of microorganisms in environmental sustainability in climate smart agriculture?
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Dr Asif Raheem thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Do microbes have any role in soil fertility and cleaning of environment and which microorganisms are capable of decomposing organic wastes?
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Dr Witold Stachowiak thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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What is the importance of rhizosphere microorganisms in agriculture and environment and role of microbial communities in soil health and agriculture?
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Rhizosphere microorganisms, teeming around plant roots, are unseen allies in both agriculture
and environmental health. Let's delve into their importance:
Agriculture Benefits:
● Nutrient Powerhouse: These microbes act as decomposers, breaking down organic matter
in the soil and releasing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that
plants readily absorb, promoting healthy growth [1].
● Plant Protectors: Some rhizosphere bacteria are warriors against pathogens! They can
suppress the growth of harmful soilborne fungi and bacteria, safeguarding plants from
disease [2].
● Growth Promoters: Certain microbes produce growth hormones that directly stimulate plant
growth and root development [2].
● Stress Resilience: Plants under stress from drought or salinity can benefit from interactions
with rhizosphere microbes that help them tolerate these harsh conditions [3].
Environmental Champions:
● Nutrient Cycling: Rhizosphere microorganisms play a pivotal role in cycling nutrients within
the ecosystem. By decomposing organic matter, they return nutrients back to the soil, making
them available for plants and maintaining soil fertility [1].
● Soil Health Guardians: A healthy rhizosphere microbiome contributes to good soil structure,
improves water infiltration, and enhances soil aggregation, all crucial for preventing erosion
and maintaining a healthy environment [3].
Microbial Communities and Soil Health:
The diversity and abundance of microbial communities in the soil are key indicators of soil
health. A rich and balanced microbial community translates to a more fertile and productive soil.
These microbes perform numerous vital functions:
● Decomposition: As mentioned earlier, they break down organic matter, releasing nutrients
for plants and contributing to the soil's carbon cycle [1].
● Nutrient Transformation: They convert nutrients from unavailable forms to plant-usable
ones, optimizing nutrient use efficiency in the ecosystem [2].
● Soil Structure: Microbial activity helps create a crumbly soil structure, promoting aeration,
drainage, and water infiltration [3]
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How microbes help to clean the environment and increase soil fertility and role of microorganisms in waste recycling?
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Dr Asif Khan thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Why are microorganisms important in biodiversity and role of microorganisms in maintaining health of organisms and ecosystems?
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Thank you for your question.
It is because, these living beings are omnipresent in various ecosystems. Thanks to their biological activity, they contribute to several dimensions.
They maintain biodiversity by their very existence, they are useful for obtaining organic matter, fixing nitrogen and enabling the process of respiration and plant nutrition (photosynthesis).
They are also the guarantors of the health of various living organisms, regulating the intestinal flora of animals including humans, boosting digestion and immunity, and helping to produce enzymes and useful vitamins.
And let's not forget that microorganisms are also responsible for restoring the ecological balance by biodegrading or decomposing waste, fixing atmospheric nitrogen and depolluting soils - in short, they ensure air, water and soil quality. In other words, they contribute to food security throughout the planet.
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How do microorganisms contribute to the health and characteristics of soil and role of microbiological activities on soil structure?
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Microorganisms are the tiny powerhouses of the soil world, playing a vital role in keeping it healthy and fertile. Here's how they contribute:
  • Nutrient Recycling: Microbes act as decomposers, breaking down dead plants and animals into simpler forms. This process, called decomposition, releases essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that plants can readily absorb.
  • Unlocking Nutrients: Some nutrients are locked away in complex minerals that plants can't directly use. Through a process called mineralization, microbes convert these minerals into usable forms for plants.
  • Nitrogen Fixation: Certain bacteria, like Rhizobium, have the unique ability to capture atmospheric nitrogen and convert it into a usable form for plants. This is crucial as nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plant growth.
  • Soil Structure: The activities of microbes, like the formation of fungal networks (mycelia), help bind soil particles together. This improves soil aggregation, leading to better aeration, drainage, and water retention.
Microbiological activities significantly impact soil structure:
  • Improved Aggregation: Fungal hyphae (thread-like structures) act like glue, binding soil particles into aggregates. These aggregates create spaces for air and water to circulate, promoting healthy root growth.
  • Increased Porosity: Microbial activity creates pores within the soil, allowing for better drainage and aeration. This prevents waterlogging and ensures roots have access to oxygen.
  • Enhanced Water Retention: Organic matter decomposed by microbes increases the soil's ability to hold onto water. This is crucial during dry periods, helping plants access moisture they need.
In essence, a healthy and diverse community of microorganisms is essential for maintaining a healthy soil structure, which directly translates to healthy plant growth and a thriving ecosystem.
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What microorganisms that live in anaerobic environments and ratio of volatile acid to alkalinity in an anaerobic digester?
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Anaerobic bacteria are widely distributed in nature in oxygen-free habitats. Many members of the indigenous human flora are anaerobic bacteria, including spirochetes and Gram-positive and Gram-negative cocci and rods. Many microorganisms affect anaerobic digestion, including acetic acid-forming bacteria and methane-forming archaea. These organisms promote a number of chemical processes in converting the biomass to biogas. Gaseous oxygen is excluded from the reactions by physical containment.Anaerobic bacteria include diverse species that can grow at environmental extremes of temperature, pH, salinity, substrate toxicity, or available free energy. The first evolved archaebacterial and eubacterial species appear to have been anaerobes adapted to high temperatures. Methanogens are an important group of microorganisms for several reasons, the most important being their ability to process organic matter to methane. Methanogenic bacteria are used in anaerobic decomposition of wastewater, as a part of the wastes treatment system. To ensure proper maintenance, alkalinity can be added at the beginning of the digestion batch. Alkaline additives include sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium nitrate, and anhydrous ammonia.
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Which microorganisms are involved in soil fertility and role of microorganisms in recycling of carbon and nitrogen through air and soil?
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Dr Prem Baboo thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Which groups of organisms are able to return nutrients back to the food web and role of microorganisms’ bacteria and fungi in nutrient cycling?
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Dr Arne Andersen thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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How do microorganisms contribute to the formation of soils and role of microorganisms in maintaining soil health and productivity?
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Microorganisms are essential to soil formation and soil ecology because they control the flux of nutrients to plants promote nitrogen fixation, and promote soil detoxification of inorganic and naturally occurring organic pollutants. Soil microorganisms are responsible for most of the nutrient release from organic matter. When microorganisms decompose organic matter, they use the carbon and nutrients in the organic matter for their own growth. They release excess nutrients into the soil where they can be taken up by plants. Soil bacteria form micro aggregates in the soil by binding soil particles together with their secretions. These micro aggregates are like the building blocks for improving soil structure. Improved soil structure increases water infiltration and increases water holding capacity of the soil. Microorganisms increase the source of nitrogen in the soil, or they can supply it directly to the plant, as they have the ability to take and set nitrogen from the atmosphere. Beneficial soil microbes perform fundamental functions such as nutrient cycling, breaking down crop residues, and stimulating plant growth. While the role of microbes to maintain soil health and contribute to crop performance is clear, the soil biological component is extremely difficult to observe and manage. Soil microbial communities extend various ecosystem services, and they are capable of improving soil fertility, increase plant tolerance toward biotic and abiotic stresses, increase crop productivity, and take part in nutrient cycling.
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How do microorganisms contribute to the reduction of soil matter and role of microbes to improve crop productivity and soil health?
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Soil microorganisms promote the decomposition of organic matter by secreting enzymes. The changes of biochar on soil enzyme activity are affected by the interaction between biochar, enzymes, and enzyme substrates. The active sites of biochar can absorb or desorb enzymes and their substrates. Microorganisms regulate soil properties and fertility through different pathways: (1) microbes can activate soil nutrients and promote their availability; (2) nitrogen-fixing bacteria improve soil fertility by transforming the nitrogen elements; (3) the extracellular secretions of microbes. Plant microbiomes are agriculturally important bioresources for agriculture as beneficial microbes may enhance plant growth and improve plant nutrition uptake through solubilization of P, K, and Zn, nitrogen fixation, and other mechanisms including siderophore production. Within food plant cropping systems, microorganisms provide vital functions and ecosystem services, such as biological pest and disease control, promotion of plant growth and crop quality, and biodegradation of organic matter and pollutants. Free-living microbes including filamentous fungi of the genus Trichoderma and a variety of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are able to suppress soil-borne plant pathogens and to stimulate plant growth by different direct or indirect mechanisms, such as production of phytohormones, and mycoparasitism. These organisms have many tasks, and are central to crop fertility, purifying the environment from pollutants, regulating carbon storage stocks and production/consumption of many significant green house gases, such as methane and nitrous oxides. These microbes may reside in rhizosphere and promote plant growth. Soil microorganism also contributes to a wide range of application in sustainability of all ecosystems. These microbes reg- ulate nutrient cycling, regulation of dynamic of soil organic matter, and enhance efficiency of nutrient acquisition.
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Which microorganism is responsible for maintaining soil fertility and in recycling of matter and role of microorganisms in recycling environment?
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Microorganisms can convert toxic elements into water, carbon dioxide, and other less toxic compounds, which are further degraded by other microbes in a process referred to as mineralization. Micro organisms play a significant role in biodegradation of organic material in waste recycling. Microbial action on dead organic matter releases nutrients in the soil thus raising the fertility status of the soil. Diazotrophic bacteria and cyanobacteria like Azotobacter, Bacillus, Beijerinckia, Clostridium, Klebsiella, Nostoc, Anabaena, Anabaenopsis, etc. Decomposers (fungi, bacteria, invertebrates such as worms and insects) have the ability to break down dead organisms into smaller particles and create new compounds. We use decomposers to restore the natural nutrient cycle through controlled composting. However, micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes–even though they go unnoticed in your compost pile–are responsible for most of the organic material breakdown. They are chemical decomposers because they use chemicals in their bodies to break down organic matter. Bacteria break down (or decompose) dead organisms, animal waste, and plant litter to obtain nutrients. But microbes don't just eat nature's waste, they recycle it. The process of decomposition releases chemicals (such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus) that can be used to build new plants and animals. Bacteria increase soil fertility through nutrient recycling such as carbon, nitrogen, sulphur and phosphorus. Bacteria also help in the decomposition of dead organic matter and then give out simple compounds in the soil, which can be used up by plants. The type of organism that recycles nutrients in a food web is decomposers. Decomposers are organisms that consume dead or decaying matter and recycle the nutrients back into the soil. Process of recycling of nutrients by chemosynthetic autotrophic bacteria: These bacteria make a great contribution to the recycling of nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur. For obtaining energy they oxidize inorganic materials. Microorganisms abound in the soil and are critical to decomposing organic residues and recycling soil nutrients. Bacteria are the smallest and most hardy microbe in the soil and can survive under harsh conditions like tillage. The microbe plays an essential role of organic matter degradation in nutrient cycling; microorganism present in soil digests the organic matter including dead organisms. The nutrients get released by the breakdown of the organic molecule to make it available for plants to uptake nutrients in the soil through roots.
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What types of pollution do microorganisms remove from real wastewater and kind of microorganisms decompose organic waste?
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Microorganisms can convert toxic elements into water, carbon dioxide, and other less toxic compounds, which are further degraded by other microbes in a process referred to as mineralization. Bioremediation can be carried out using bacteria, fungi, algae, etc. Microbes possess the ability to degrade a large group of pollutants such as heavy metals, dyes, hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, etc. This bacterium uses the free oxygen within the water to degrade the pollutants in the wastewater and then converts it into energy that it can use to grow and reproduce. For this type of bacteria to be used correctly, it must have oxygen added mechanically. In these processes, bacteria, fungi, molds, protozoa, actinomycetes, and other saprophytic organisms feed upon decaying organic materials initially, while in the later stages of decomposition mites, millipedes, centipedes, springtails, beetles and earthworms further breakdown and enrich the composting materials. Bioremediation is the process of using microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, fungi, and plants to break down, change, remove, immobilize, or detoxify various physical and chemical pollutants in the environment. Microorganisms are used to break down organic waste. These micro-organisms use the wastes as a source of food and energy to develop and reproduce. You got it, bacteria are the heart of the process and finally, a wastewater treatment plant represents a small farm where micro-organisms are cultivated on a large scale. Microbial decomposition of natural waste also renders organic compounds and minerals bioavailable for growing crops effectively aiding in crop production. Fungi and bacteria eliminate pathogens and effectively accelerate the degradation process. However, micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes–even though they go unnoticed in your compost pile–are responsible for most of the organic material breakdown. They are chemical decomposers because they use chemicals in their bodies to break down organic matter.
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What are the nutritional activities of microorganisms and different types of microorganisms found in soil contribute to the health and productivity of plants?
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Dr Lucy George thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Can bacteria increase soil fertility and how microbes help in cleaning the environment and maintaining nitrogen balance in nature?
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Dr Urol Nomozov thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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How do plants interact with soil microorganisms and contribute to soil fertility and role of microorganisms in the decomposition of organic matter present in soil?
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Dr Urol Nomozov thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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What is the role of microorganisms in managing climate change impacts and relationship between organic matter and microorganisms?
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Dr Senthilmurgan Palanisamy thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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What is the role of microorganisms in maintaining balance in the environment and microorganisms to degrade organic substances in groundwater?
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Dr Oleg Novikov thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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Which microorganism is responsible for maintaining soil fertility and in recycling of matter and role of bacteria living in the soil in recycling nitrogen?
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Dr Mohammadjavad Vahidi thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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What type of microorganism has complex nutritional requirements and role of microbial communities in soil health and agriculture?
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Microorganisms with complex nutritional requirements are often referred to as fastidious microorganisms. These organisms have specific and intricate nutritional needs, requiring precise conditions for growth. Examples include certain bacteria and fungi.
Microbial communities play a crucial role in soil health and agriculture. Beneficial microorganisms contribute to nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and disease suppression. Mycorrhizal fungi enhance plant nutrient uptake, while nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants. Maintaining a diverse and balanced microbial community in soil is essential for sustainable agriculture and crop productivity.
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What are the nutritional and environmental requirements for bacterial growth and how do microorganisms maintain the health of ecosystems?
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bacterial growth depends on bacterial species as mesophiles or thermophiles so as provision of nutrients requisite towards genes inherent in microbes
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Which microorganisms enrich the soil with nutrients and microorganisms contribute to the health and characteristics of soil?
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Dr Murtadha Shukur thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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How microorganisms are important for maintaining of healthy soil and biodiversity and role of microbes in nutrition?
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Dr Abdulridha Taha Sarhan thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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What is the role of microorganisms in the nutrient cycle and what microorganisms convert agricultural wastes to compost?
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Dr Sunil Meghwanshi thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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No cenário atual de descontrole ambiental, e intensas implicações nos sistemas de cultivos de lavouras perenes e anuais, a utilização dos microorganismos benéficos podem se tornar importantes aliados de manejo, seja ele: agroecológico, orgânico ou transitório ?
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Microrganismos, como leveduras e algas, podem produzir biocombustíveis, como etanol e biodiesel, como alternativas aos combustíveis fósseis. Célula de dessalinização microbiana s. A Célula de Dessalinização Microbiana é moderna e inovadora e tem muito potencial, a tecnologia é capaz de produzir água potável sustentável utilizando a energia obtida no metabolismo de bactérias eletroativas quando a matéria orgânica é degradada. A investigação em genómica microbiana e em biotecnologia microbiana é fundamental para avanços na segurança alimentar, segurança alimentar, biotecnologia, produtos de valor acrescentado, nutrição humana e alimentos funcionais, protecção de plantas e animais, e para o aprofundamento da investigação fundamental nas ciências agrícolas. o uso de bactérias para produzir antibióticos e outros produtos farmacêuticos, o uso de leveduras para produzir alimentos e bebidas e o uso de fungos para decompor matéria orgânica em aterros sanitários. Na agricultura, a intervenção microbiana tem sido útil para alcançar maior produtividade com sustentabilidade na agricultura através do aumento da fertilidade do solo por diferentes mecanismos, como fixação de nitrogênio, disponibilidade de nutrientes essenciais para as plantas (P, K), decomposição e reciclagem de resíduos (industriais, A participação de microrganismos na geração de produtos ou serviços médicos envolve quatro aspectos distintos: 1. Biocontrole de doenças, 2. produção de vacinas, 3. produção de antibióticos, e 4. produção de bioterápicos (hormônios, biomateriais e outros).
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These biofertilizers consist of a combination of microorganisms blended in either a powder or liquid form. The accuracy of conventional methods, such as plate counting and most probable number, can be inconsistent when dealing with multiple strains. This can make the task of quantifying microorganisms even more challenging.st appropriate method for different types of biofertilizers.
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Traditional methods for quantification of microorganisms rely on counting serially diluted plates assays (bacteria), direct counting by optical microscopy chambers (bacteria and protozoa), transmission electron microscopy (viruses), plaque assays (viruses and bacteria), endpoint dilution and hem agglutination assays. viable, plate count method and spectrophotometric (turbid metric) analysis. The number of visible colonies (CFU) present on an agar plate can be multiplied by the dilution factor to provide the CFU/ml value. Methods for counting the bacteria, measuring wet or dry mass, and measuring turbidity. equipment and supplies to conduct at least one of these experiments
1. Observing bacteria directly
2. Measuring wet OR dry mass
3. Measuring Turbidity
Foolowing link is usefull for quantifying bacteria
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Dear researchers, what could be the formation mechanism of the structure that is tiny in size at the end of the first day in the electroless nickel plating waste solution, grows like a mushroom day by day, and has the following appearance after about 2 weeks? What is this structure? I think this is the field of biochemistry and I am not knowledgeable as a materials researcher researcher and I could not find an answer to this in the literature. Maybe because this is not within my field of study, I could not do a proper literature search, I don't know.
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Dear Dr. Robert Adolf Brinzer,
Thanks for your answer. For me, there is no problem with contamination of the solution. I just wanted to have an idea about the structure because I was very curious about why this mushroom-like structure could form in nickel solution and whether this structure could be used for any material field. I think a fatty component was accidentally mixed into the nickel solution, which is why the structure was formed.
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I thought about TSS using gravimetric methods or quantifying the DNA but i cant find a method
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You could try direct microscopic count using Petroff-Hausser counting chamber slide. Viable count can be done.
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We have a product made of a fermented microorganism (fungi) formulated with MCC (mycrocrystalline cellulose).
We have mistaken the reference of MCC (used a one with a different granulometry).
Does anybody know if we can separate the fungi (support) from the celulose without harming the viability of the fungi.
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do you wish to obtain/separate the entire mycelial mass?
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What is the biological importance of bacteria and role of microbes to improve crop productivity and soil health?
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Dr Roschel Sumalinog thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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How do microbes help in agriculture and which microorganisms are used to increase soil fertility by fixing nitrogen in agriculture?
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Dr Sunil Meghwanshi thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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I am researching on it and i didn't find any articles published on this topic
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Most packaged beverages are pasteurized before sealing in their containers. This means contaminating microorganisms usually are introduced after product manufacture through damage to the packaging.
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Does humus need microorganisms to decompose matter and role of microorganisms in waste disposal and composting?
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@ RK, humus is nothing but dark organic materials present in soil after the decomposition of plant and animal residues by microorganisms. Microorganisms has a great role in waste disposal and composting. Generally, they decompose organic waste materials including organic pollutants . They are also very active in compost pit and responsible for organic matter breakdown as chemical decomposers as they use chemicals in their bodies to breakdown organic matter.
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I am trying to simulate three particle of different sizes and properties (mainly biological particles) in COMSOL particle trajectory module. The system has to operate through some voltage V and the particles experiences different forces and ultimately moves. However, model is showing many errors:-
1.) Only single particle is under simulation despite defining all the particles
2.) Unable to calculate the forces which was added to the physics (eg, drag force, electric force, etch)
2.) Despite giving step time range(0, 1, 5) sec, model only converge up to 1 sec.
Can anyone help me with some tutorial similar to this? Or What am I missing in this?
Thanks
Nandini
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Some suggestions for you:
Particle Definitions- Verify accurate definitions for all particles in terms of sizes, charges, masses, and other properties.
Physics Settings- Confirm inclusion of relevant physics interfaces (Fluid Flow, Electric Fields, Particle Tracing) with proper configuration for particle sizes.
Force Calculation- Check expressions for drag force, electric force, etc., ensuring correct definitions of variables and parameters.
Solver Settings- Adjust solver settings, focusing on the time-stepping method, time step size, and tolerance values. Smaller time steps may enhance accuracy.
Initial Conditions- Provide precise initial conditions for particles, including positions and velocities.
Meshing- Ensure a well-defined mesh with appropriate settings and resolution to capture particle behavior.
Check for Errors- Review solver logs and error messages for insights into convergence issues.
Documentation and Tutorials- Refer to COMSOL documentation and tutorials, specifically for Particle Tracing in Fluid Flow.
Contact COMSOL Support- If issues persist, reach out to COMSOL support for personalized assistance.
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How microorganisms are important for maintaining of health soil and biodiversity and role does soil play in the cycling of energy and nutrients?
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Dr Murtadha Shukur thank you for your contribution to the discussion
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What is the role of marine microorganisms in nutrient cycle and what role do microorganisms play in decomposing organic matter and recycling?
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Microorganisms play a vital role in the cycling of nutrients within marine ecosystems [3]. Their functions include decomposing organic matter, nitrogen fixation, carbon conversion, and nutrient recycling, all contributing to the overall vitality and productivity of the ecosystem. Because of their capacity for rapid growth, marine microorganisms are a major component of global nutrient cycles. Understanding what controls their distributions and their diverse suite of nutrient transformations is a major challenge facing contemporary biological oceanographers. The microbe plays an essential role of organic matter degradation in nutrient cycling; microorganism present in soil digests the organic matter including dead organisms. The nutrients get released by the breakdown of the organic molecule to make it available for plants to uptake nutrients in the soil through roots. The microbial remineralization of labile carbon to its inorganic form is globally important because it diverts carbon from the biological carbon pump, reducing net community production and influencing air–sea CO2 fluxes. During the decomposition process, microorganisms convert the carbon structures of fresh residues into transformed carbon products in the soil. There are many different types of organic molecules in soil. Some are simple molecules that have been synthesized directly from plants or other living organisms. The most significant effect of the microbes on earth is their ability to recycle the primary elements that make up all living systems, especially carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen (N). Primary production involves photosynthetic organisms which take up CO2 from the atmosphere and convert it to organic material. The type of organism that recycles nutrients in a food web is decomposers. Decomposers are organisms that consume dead or decaying matter and recycle the nutrients back into the soil. Worms, bacteria, and fungi are examples of decomposers. Soil microorganisms promote the decomposition of organic matter by secreting enzymes. The changes of biochar on soil enzyme activity are affected by the interaction between biochar, enzymes, and enzyme substrates. The active sites of biochar can absorb or desorb enzymes and their substrates. Decomposers are organisms that consume dead or decaying matter and recycle the nutrients back into the soil. Worms, bacteria, and fungi are examples of decomposers.
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What is the role of microorganisms in mineral cycling and soil fertility microorganisms in soil decomposition and nutrient cycling?
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Microbes are critical in the process of breaking down and transforming dead organic material into forms that can be reused by other organisms. This is why the microbial enzyme systems involved are viewed as key 'engines' that drives the Earth's biogeochemical cycles. Microorganisms are responsible for the degradation of organic matter, which controls the release of plant nutrients, but is also important for the maintenance of soil structure and sustainability of soil quality for plant growth. The microbe plays an essential role of organic matter degradation in nutrient cycling; microorganism present in soil digests the organic matter including dead organisms. The nutrients get released by the breakdown of the organic molecule to make it available for plants to uptake nutrients in the soil through roots. Microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling in soil. The composition and activity of microbiota impact the soil quality status, health, and nutrient enrichment. Microbes are essential for nutrient mobility and absorption. Through their varied functions, they stimulate plant growth and reduce diseases. Soil microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, and archaea, perform vital ecosystem functions, such as decomposition and nutrient cycling, and form symbiotic relationships with plants. Soil microbes can break down plant organic matter to carbon dioxide or convert it to dissolved organic carbon (DOC) compounds. This leads either to long-term carbon storage, because DOC can bind to soil particles, or to the release of carbon back to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. The soil fertility improving functions of soil microorganisms include release of plant nutrients such as P,K and Zn from insoluble inorganic forms, decomposition of organic residues and release of nutrients, formation of beneficial soil humus by decomposing organic residues and through synthesis of new compounds. Microorganisms are responsible for the degradation of organic matter, which controls the release of plant nutrients, but is also important for the maintenance of soil structure and sustainability of soil quality for plant growth. Decomposition is a process that releases nutrient materials in the structure of plant and animal tissues to the soil solution where the nutrients are once again potentially available to plants. The nutrient cycle is a system where energy and matter are transferred between living organisms and non-living parts of the environment. This occurs as animals and plants consume nutrients found in the soil, and these nutrients are then released back into the environment via death and decomposition.
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What is the role of microbes in climate change and which group of microbes is responsible for CH4 formation on Earth?
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Microbes in aquatic and terrestrial environments produce and consume the greenhouse gases CO2, CH4 and N2O. Soil and aquatic microbes produce these gases when decomposing organic matter to provide nutrients for plants and marine life, respectively. While some microbes are beneficial to curbing climate change serving as major drivers of elemental cycles or consuming greenhouse gases, like methane and carbon dioxide others may contribute to rises in methane, carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide in the environment. Methanogens are anaerobic archaea that grow by producing methane gas. These microbes and their exotic metabolism have inspired decades of microbial physiology research that continues to push the boundary of what we know about how microbes conserve energy to grow. Warming and physical changes to soil can affect nutrient availability and cycling by microbes, which will have unknown cascading effects on the environment (Andrade-Linares et al. 2021). Microorganisms consume and produce the key greenhouse gases CO2, CH4, and N2O, which contribute to global warming. Oxyfera can survive in methane-rich areas that are inhospitable to many other bacteria. It does this with the help of an enzyme, perhaps a nitric oxide dismutase that combines two molecules of nitric oxide to form nitrogen and oxygen. The oxygen is then used to metabolize methane to produce water and carbon dioxide. It is responsible for more than 25 per cent of the global warming we are experiencing today. Due to its structure, methane traps more heat in the atmosphere per molecule than carbon dioxide (CO2), making it 80 times more harmful than CO2 for 20 years after it is released. Methane is responsible for around 30% of the rise in global temperatures since the industrial revolution, and rapid and sustained reductions in methane emissions are key to limit near-term warming and improve air quality.
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dfsfdg dd
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Are there any updates on the book chapter?. We have not received any update for the abstract that we have sent
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Why are microorganisms important in soil agriculture and how do microorganisms living in soil help producers like plants?
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Microorganisms in soil, such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, play crucial roles in soil agriculture. They contribute to soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and plant health. Here are some key ways in which soil microorganisms benefit producers like plants:
1. **Nutrient Cycling:** Microorganisms break down organic matter into simpler forms through processes like decomposition. This releases essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which plants can then absorb for growth and development.
2. **Nitrogen Fixation:** Certain bacteria, like rhizobia, have the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form (ammonia or nitrates) that plants can utilize. This process is known as nitrogen fixation and is essential for plant nutrition.
3. **Disease Suppression:** Some soil microorganisms can suppress plant pathogens. For example, certain fungi can form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, offering protection against harmful pathogens and enhancing the plant's disease resistance.
4. **Decomposition:** Microorganisms break down dead plant material and organic residues into humus. This not only enriches the soil but also improves its structure, water retention, and aeration.
5. **Mycorrhizal Associations:** Mycorrhizal fungi form mutualistic relationships with plant roots. They extend the plant's root system, increasing its ability to absorb water and nutrients, especially phosphorus. In return, the plant provides the fungus with sugars.
6. **Soil Structure:** Microorganisms produce substances that help bind soil particles together, contributing to soil structure. Improved soil structure enhances water infiltration, root penetration, and overall plant growth.
In essence, the diverse community of microorganisms in soil forms a complex ecosystem that directly and indirectly supports plant growth, nutrient availability, and overall soil health in agricultural systems. Sustainable agricultural practices often focus on fostering a healthy soil microbiome to optimize crop production.
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What is produced by microorganisms decomposing in the soil and role of soil microbes in the biogeochemical cycle for enhancing soil fertility?
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When microorganisms decompose in the soil, they produce a variety of beneficial products that contribute to soil fertility:
1. Nutrients:
  • Nitrogen: Some microbes, called nitrogen fixers, convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonium, which can be used by plants. Others, like nitrifiers and denitrifiers, participate in the nitrogen cycle, transforming and making nitrogen available in different forms.
  • Phosphorus: Microbial activity dissolves and releases phosphorus from organic matter and minerals, making it accessible to plants.
  • Sulphur: Sulphur-oxidizing bacteria release sulphur from organic matter and minerals, providing plants with an essential nutrient.
2. Organic matter:
  • Microbes break down dead plant and animal matter, creating stable humus. Humus improves soil structure, drainage, and water-holding capacity, all of which contribute to fertile soil.
  • Microbes release various organic compounds that stimulate plant growth.
3. Other benefits:
  • Microbes can suppress soil-borne pathogens, protecting plants from diseases.
  • They produce hormones and other growth factors that benefit plants.
  • They promote soil aggregation, creating a crumbly structure that allows for better air and water movement.
By producing these beneficial products and performing crucial roles in biogeochemical cycles, soil microbes significantly enhance soil fertility:
  • Carbon cycle: Microbes decompose organic matter, releasing carbon dioxide. They also store carbon in their bodies and in the humus they create. This cycling of carbon is essential for climate regulation and plant growth.
  • Nitrogen cycle: As mentioned above, microbes play a vital role in making nitrogen available to plants.
  • Phosphorous cycle: Microbial activity releases phosphorus from rocks and minerals, making it usable for plants.
  • Other element cycles: Soil microbes participate in cycling various other elements like sulphur, iron, and potassium, influencing their availability for plants.
Maintaining a healthy and diverse microbial community in the soil is crucial for sustainable agriculture and healthy ecosystems. This can be achieved through practices like using compost, minimizing soil disturbance, and avoiding excessive pesticide and fertilizer use.
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What is immobilization in soil fertility and role of microorganisms in the cycling of carbon?
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Immobilization in soil fertility refers to the temporary sequestration of essential nutrients, like nitrogen, by microorganisms for their own growth and metabolic processes, making these nutrients temporarily unavailable for plant uptake. This process can impact crop productivity. Microorganisms play a crucial role in the cycling of carbon in the soil by decomposing organic matter and releasing carbon dioxide through respiration. Simultaneously, they contribute to carbon sequestration by converting organic carbon into more stable forms, such as humus. This intricate dance between immobilization and microbial activity in carbon cycling influences soil fertility, plant nutrition, and overall ecosystem health.
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What is the role of microorganisms in waste recycling and role of microbes in decomposition process and waste utilization?
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Hey there Rk Naresh! 👋 So, have you Rk Naresh ever stopped to think about the tiny organisms that play a BIG role in waste recycling? 🤔 Yeah, I thought so! 😊 Microorganisms, like bacteria and fungi, are the real MVPs (Most Valuable Microbes) when it comes to breaking down organic waste and turning it into valuable nutrients for the environment. 🌿💚 They're like nature's own recycling program! 🌟 During the decomposition process, these tiny powerhouses secrete enzymes that break down complex molecules in organic waste into simpler compounds. 🧬🔪 This helps in the recycling of nutrients like carbon and nitrogen, which are essential for plant growth. 🌱🌿 Without these microbes, we'd be drowning in heaps of undecomposed waste! 🚽😷 But that's not all! 🤔 In waste utilization, certain microbes are employed in processes like composting and wastewater treatment. 🌱🚮 In composting, microbes break down organic waste into nutrient-rich compost for soil improvement. 🌾🌼 In wastewater treatment, microbes digest pollutants, purifying the water. 💦🚀 So, there you Rk Naresh have it! 🤝 Microorganisms are the unsung heroes of waste management, turning trash into treasure for the environment. 💚🌎 Cheers to the microbial workforce! 🥳🎉 Now, go ahead and give these tiny powerhouses a virtual high-five! 👋😃
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What is the role of microorganisms in plant nutrition and soil health and nutritional requirements of microorganisms of industrial importance?
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Rk Naresh This may be help you Sir
Microorganisms play a crucial role in plant nutrition and soil health. They are involved in various processes that benefit plant growth and soil fertility. Here are the key aspects:
  1. Nitrogen Fixation: Some soil bacteria, like Rhizobium, form symbiotic relationships with leguminous plants, converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants. This process significantly contributes to the nitrogen content of the soil.
  2. Decomposition and Nutrient Cycling: Microorganisms decompose organic matter in the soil, releasing nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for plant growth. This recycling maintains soil fertility.
  3. Enhancing Soil Structure: Microbial activity improves soil structure, increasing its porosity and aeration, which aids in root growth and water retention.
  4. Disease Suppression: Certain soil microorganisms can suppress plant pathogens, reducing the incidence of plant diseases.
  5. Promoting Plant Growth: Some microbes, like mycorrhizal fungi, form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, enhancing water and nutrient uptake, and in some cases, providing resistance to environmental stress.
For microorganisms of industrial importance, their nutritional requirements vary widely depending on the species and the industrial application. Generally, these microorganisms need:
  1. Carbon Source: For energy, growth, and as a building block for cellular components. This can be derived from sugars, alcohols, or hydrocarbons, depending on the microorganism.
  2. Nitrogen Source: Essential for the synthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, and other cellular components. Common sources include ammonia, nitrates, or organic nitrogen.
  3. Minerals and Vitamins: Required in trace amounts for various enzymatic and physiological functions.
  4. Specific Growth Factors: Some microorganisms need specific vitamins or amino acids that they cannot synthesize.
  5. Optimal Environmental Conditions: Temperature, pH, and oxygen levels must be suitable for the specific microorganism's growth and metabolic activities.
In industrial contexts, the cultivation of these microorganisms is carefully controlled to maximize their production of desired products, such as antibiotics, enzymes, or biofuels.
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How do I increase good microorganisms in soil and different types of microorganisms found in soil contribute to the health and productivity of plants?
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Keeping the soil covered with mulch, straw or leaf litter is the first step in promoting soil biota. A living ground cover of plants is even better. Plants devote considerable energy to encouraging soil organisms by secreting sugars, vitamins and other organic compounds into the soil. Chemical pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers can devastate entire populations of micro-organisms in our soil. Choose organic fertilizers instead such as compost and manure which release nutrients into the soil over time and don't leave long term residues like many chemical fertilizers. Diverse soil foods from compost, manure and different plant root sugars feed different, healthier populations of microorganisms. High numbers of all the different types of microbes increase nutrient cycling, increasing aggregate growth, humus/ SOM production and carbon sequestration. Bacteria help fix the atmospheric nitrogen with the help of nitrogenase enzyme and increase the nitrogen content in the soil. It is referred to as Nitrogen-fixing Bacteria. As Nostoc, Anabaena, Azotobacter, etc. Beneficial microorganisms include those that create symbiotic associations with plant roots (rhizobia, mycorrhizal fungi, actinomycetes, diazotrophic bacteria), promote nutrient mineralization and availability, produce plant growth hormones, and are antagonists of plant pests, parasites or diseases (biocontrol agents). In their natural environment, plants are part of a rich ecosystem including numerous and diverse microorganisms in the soil. It has been long recognized that some of these microbes, such as mycorrhizal fungi or nitrogen fixing symbiotic bacteria, play important roles in plant performance by improving mineral nutrition. Beneficial bacteria in agricultural soil not only reduce the risk of diseases that can be spread through the soil, but they also hasten the decomposition of organic matter, which makes more of the mineral nutrients and other vital organic compounds available to plants.
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What is the role of the carbon cycle in regulating Earth's temperature and how are microbes involved in carbon cycling in an ecosystem?
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The carbon cycle plays a crucial role in regulating Earth's temperature by controlling the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. CO2 acts like a blanket, trapping heat from the sun and warming the planet. The carbon cycle is a complex process that moves carbon through the atmosphere, land, oceans, and living organisms.
Here's how it works:
  • Photosynthesis: Plants and some microbes take in CO2 from the atmosphere and use it to create organic matter (like sugars) for energy. This process releases oxygen back into the atmosphere.📷Opens in a new window📷en.wikipedia.orgPhotosynthesis process
  • Respiration: All living organisms, including plants, animals, and microbes, release CO2 back into the atmosphere when they breathe.📷Opens in a new window📷wikipedia.orgRespiration process
  • Decomposition: When organisms die, decomposers (mostly microbes) break down their organic matter, releasing CO2 back into the atmosphere.📷Opens in a new window📷byjus.comDecomposition process
  • Geological processes: Over long timescales, carbon can be stored in rocks and sediments through geological processes like the formation of fossil fuels.
The balance between these processes determines the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. If more CO2 is released than is stored, the atmosphere warms up. If more CO2 is stored than is released, the atmosphere cools down.
Microbes are essential players in the carbon cycle. They are involved in all stages of the cycle, from photosynthesis to decomposition. In fact, microbes are responsible for decomposing about 90% of all organic matter on Earth!
Here are some specific ways microbes are involved in carbon cycling:
  • Photosynthesis: Some microbes, such as cyanobacteria, can perform photosynthesis. This means they can take in CO2 from the atmosphere and use it to create organic matter.
  • Decomposition: Microbes are the main decomposers of organic matter. They break down dead plants and animals, releasing CO2 back into the atmosphere.
  • Methane production: Some microbes, such as methanogens, produce methane (CH4) as a waste product. Methane is another greenhouse gas that can contribute to climate change.
  • Nitrogen fixation: Some microbes can convert atmospheric nitrogen gas (N2) into a form that plants can use. This process is essential for plant growth, which in turn affects the amount of CO2 that is removed from the atmosphere through photosynthesis.
By understanding the role of microbes in the carbon cycle, we can develop strategies to mitigate climate change. For example, we can encourage practices that promote soil health and microbial activity, such as composting and adding biochar to soil. These practices can help to store more carbon in the soil and reduce the amount of CO2 that is released into the atmosphere.
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What is the role of microorganisms in cycling materials through an ecosystem and role of marine microbes in global carbon cycling?
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The Mighty Microbes: Recycling Champions in Every Ecosystem
Microorganisms, those unseen workhorses of the natural world, play a crucial role in cycling materials through every ecosystem on Earth. They act as tiny decomposers, transformers, and recyclers, ensuring a constant flow of essential elements like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus between living organisms and the environment. Here's how they achieve this magic:
Decomposition: By breaking down dead organisms and organic matter, microbes transform complex molecules into simpler forms like nutrients and minerals. These become readily available for plants and other organisms to absorb and utilize. Without this "microbial cleanup crew," dead matter would simply pile up, disrupting the cycle of resources.
Nutrient cycling: Different groups of microbes specialize in handling specific elements. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, for example, convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants. Others are champions of the carbon cycle, breaking down organic matter and releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, while some even fix carbon directly from the air. This continuous cycling ensures a steady supply of these vital elements for all living things.
Detoxification: Microbes aren't just recyclers; they're also nature's sanitation squad. They degrade pollutants and toxic compounds, rendering them harmless and sometimes even converting them into usable resources. This vital service helps maintain the health and stability of ecosystems.
Marine Microbes: The Carbon Cycle's Ocean Engine
When it comes to global carbon cycling, marine microbes play a starring role. These tiny giants of the sea are responsible for:
  • Phytoplankton productivity: Marine microbes drive the base of the ocean food web, forming phytoplankton. These microscopic algae absorb vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, storing it in their cells and forming the foundation of the marine food chain.
  • Organic matter decomposition: Once these microorganisms die, they sink to the ocean floor, carrying a portion of the absorbed carbon with them. Deep-sea microbes then decompose this organic matter, ultimately releasing carbon dioxide back into the ocean water or storing it in sediments.
  • Methane production and consumption: Some marine microbes produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, while others can consume it. This delicate balance plays a crucial role in regulating atmospheric methane levels and, consequently, global climate.
In conclusion, microorganisms are the unseen heroes of material cycling, both in individual ecosystems and on a global scale. They silently but efficiently decompose, transform, and recycle essential elements, ensuring the smooth functioning of the biosphere. Their crucial role in the carbon cycle, particularly in the vast oceans, highlights their importance in maintaining our planet's delicate climate balance. So, the next time you think about an ecosystem, remember the invisible orchestra of microbes beneath your feet or in the depths of the oceans, tirelessly conducting the essential symphony of life and recycling.
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How does an increase in the microorganisms in the soil affect the soil quality and relationship between higher plants and soil microorganisms?
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The main effects of the presence of microorganisms in the soil are: Improved plant nutrition. Microorganisms increase the source of nitrogen in the soil, or they can supply it directly to the plant, as they have the ability to take and set nitrogen from the atmosphere. Soil microorganisms are responsible for most of the nutrient release from organic matter. When microorganisms decompose organic matter, they use the carbon and nutrients in the organic matter for their own growth. They release excess nutrients into the soil where they can be taken up by plants. Both plants and microorganisms obtain their nutrients from soil and change soil properties by organic litter deposition and metabolic activities, respectively. Microorganisms have a range of direct effects on plants through, e.g., manipulation of hormone signaling and protection against pathogens. Plants benefit both directly and indirectly through the associated microorganisms. Plants provide shelter to the microbes as endophyte or symbiosis process in their apoplastic space, intercellular space, cell cortex, plant surface, and rhizosphere zone. Soil microorganisms promote the decomposition of organic matter by secreting enzymes. The changes of biochar on soil enzyme activity are affected by the interaction between biochar, enzymes, and enzyme substrates. The active sites of biochar can absorb or desorb enzymes and their substrates. Beneficial bacteria in agricultural soil not only reduce the risk of diseases that can be spread through the soil, but they also hasten the decomposition of organic matter, which makes more of the mineral nutrients and other vital organic compounds available to plants.
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How do microorganisms affect plant growth in soil and role of microbes in the weathering of minerals and soil formation?
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Microorganisms have the potential to improve plant growth under abiotic stress conditions by promoting the production of low-molecular-weight osmolytes, such as glycinebetaine, proline, and other amino acids, mineral phosphate solubilization, nitrogen fixation, organic acids, and producing key enzymes. This means that nitrogen fixing and nutrient mineralization processes carried out by soil microbes are crucial for plant nutrition in natural ecosystems, because these reactions metabolize recalcitrant forms of N, P, and S to liberate these elements for plant nutrition. Soil pH, total phosphorus, climate and distance are the major factors influencing microbial activity at a regional spatial scale. PGPMs, including plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and rhizobia, increase the production of biomass in plants through synthesizing hormones, fixing nitrogen, and solubilizing phosphate and potassium. Soil microorganisms encompass archaea, bacteria, fungi and protozoa. They are responsible for the majority of enzymatic processes in soil and store energy and nutrients in their biomass. Mineral weathering by bacteria: ecology, actors and mechanisms. Soil microbes play an essential role in the environment by contributing to the release of key nutrients from primary minerals that are required not only for their own nutrition but also for that of plants. Soils develop because of the weathering of materials on Earth's surface, including the mechanical breakup of rocks, and the chemical weathering of minerals. The downward percolation of water facilitates soil development. Beneficial microorganisms have been shown to play a role in atmospheric nitrogen fixation, organic wastes and residues decomposition, detoxification of pesticides, suppression of plant diseases and soil-borne pathogens, enhancement of nutrient cycling, and production of bioactive compounds such as vitamins, hormones. Soil microbes play an essential role in the environment by contributing to the release of key nutrients from primary minerals that are required not only for their own nutrition but also for that of plants.
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What is the role of microorganisms in the natural system and role of microorganisms in cycling materials through an ecosystem?
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Microorganisms have several vital roles in ecosystems: decomposition, oxygen production, evolution, and symbiotic relationships. Decomposition is where dead animal or plant matter is broken down into more basic molecules. This process only happens because of the microorganisms that find their way into the dead matter. Microorganisms help in cleaning up the environment. They decompose dead and decaying matter from plants and animals; convert them into simpler substances which are later used up by other plants and animals. Thus, they are used to breakdown harmful substances. Microorganisms are found everywhere in the environment and play a leading role in countless natural processes. Among other things, they operate the basic drug cycles that are necessary for the plants' supply of nutrients via the reaction of organic matter in soil. These organisms fix atmospheric nitrogen and supply it to plants. Biological fertilizers obtained from microorganisms are very good for improving soil quality and fertility. They are also environmentally friendly and do not cause any toxic or dangerous effects.Microorganisms help return minerals and nutrients back to the environment so that the materials can then be used by other organisms. As the bacteria and fungi decompose dead matter, they also respire. Microorganisms are responsible for the degradation of organic matter, which controls the release of plant nutrients, but is also important for the maintenance of soil structure and sustainability of soil quality for plant growth. The cycling of materials is important in an ecosystem because it helps sustain biotic life and conditions on Earth, by enabling oxygen, carbon, etc., to circulate. Decomposers play a critical role in the flow of energy through an ecosystem. They break apart dead organisms into simpler inorganic materials, making nutrients available to primary producers. Microorganism decompose the lead leaves from the old tress. They break up the leaves and release the nutrient and carbon into the environment. the new leaves photosynthesis and use the Carbon that was broken down in respiration to make glucose which is used to make new cells. Microbes drive the global biogeochemical cycles and play a crucial role in the ecosystems. The microorganisms in the environment play a significant role in the biogeochemical cycling of elements, food webs, and the functioning of aquatic ecosystems.
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Which process removes carbon from the atmosphere and role of microorganisms in mineralization?
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Natural processes, such as photosynthesis by plants, absorption by the oceans, and geological processes, naturally remove CO2. Artificial techniques include carbon capture and storage (CCS), afforestation and reforestation, direct air capture (DAC), ocean fertilization, and soil carbon sequestration. Photosynthesis and primary production take CO2 (and hence carbon) out of the atmosphere, while respiration releases it back into the air. NPP provides a measure of the rate at which carbon is extracted from the atmosphere in excess of plant respiration. The process which is used to remove Carbon dioxide from the air is photosynthesis and process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize nutrients from carbon dioxide and water is photosynthesis. Photosynthesis & diffusion from the atmosphere to the oceans remove carbon from the atmosphere. Photosynthesis by algae (phytoplankton) is faster. Plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and much of this carbon dioxide is then stored in roots, permafrost, grasslands, and forests. Plants and the soil then release carbon dioxide when they decay. Other organisms also release carbon dioxide as they live and die. Microbial mineralization of soil organic matter plays an important role in cycling of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Microbial mineralization is influenced by factors such as soil temperature, soil structure, and character of soil microorganisms. Microorganisms play an important role in the acquisition and transfer of nutrients in soil. In particular, microorganisms can solubilise and mineralize P from inorganic and organic pools of total soil P. Decomposition of organic matter by the decomposers in the soil produces a dark, nutrient-rich substance called humus. The humus is further degraded by microorganisms releasing inorganic nutrients into the soil. Carbon mineralization is the process by which carbon dioxide becomes a solid mineral, such as a carbonate. It is a chemical reaction that happens when certain rocks are exposed to carbon dioxide. The biggest advantage of carbon mineralization is that the carbon cannot escape back to the atmosphere.
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How microorganisms are important for maintaining of health soil and biodiversity and role of microorganisms in plant nutrition and soil health?
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Microorganisms help break down organic matter, they release essential nutrients and carbon dioxide into the soil, fix nitrogen and help transform nutrients into mineral forms that plants can use through a process called mineralization and nitrogen fixing bacteria improve soil fertility.Microorganisms regulate soil properties and fertility through different pathways: (1) microbes can activate soil nutrients and promote their availability; (2) nitrogen-fixing bacteria improve soil fertility by transforming the nitrogen elements; (3) the extracellular secretions of microbes can enhance the stability of ecosystems. Beneficial soil microbes perform fundamental functions such as nutrient cycling, breaking down crop residues, and stimulating plant growth. While the role of microbes to maintain soil health and contribute to crop performance is clear, the soil biological component is extremely difficult to observe and manage. Microorganisms increase the production of humus, which leads to an increase in soil health. Soil structure and soil texture are essentially the same property of soil. Soil microorganisms alter the waste constituents through organic matter decomposition, inorganic transformations, and nutrient assimilation. These processes are largely restricted to the upper meter of soil. The ability of soil microorganisms to decompose organic matter is a function of their population complexity. Microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling in soil. The composition and activity of microbiota impact the soil quality status, health, and nutrient enrichment. Microbes are essential for nutrient mobility and absorption. Through their varied functions, they stimulate plant growth and reduce diseases. Moreover, microorganisms have the ability to degrade and detoxify harmful organic as well as inorganic compounds that accumulate in the soil as contaminating substances, which are the result of many activities, including agriculture practices. They exert the bioremediation action benefiting soil and plant health. Microscopic creatures including bacteria, fungi and viruses can make you ill. But what you may not realize is that trillions of microbes are living in and on your body right now. Most don't harm you at all. In fact, they help you digest food, protect against infection and even maintain your reproductive health. Microorganisms play essential roles in biogeochemical processes, and the disturbance of these microbial systems on a global scale may result in dramatic ecological issues, such as disruptions of food webs due to nutrient cycling changes, and increased greenhouse gas production due to alterations of the carbon cycle. Soil microorganisms are responsible for most of the nutrient release from organic matter. When microorganisms decompose organic matter, they use the carbon and nutrients in the organic matter for their own growth. They release excess nutrients into the soil where they can be taken up by plants.
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How does carbon cycling play a role in ecosystems and role of microbes in maintain temperature on Earth and role of microbes in CO2 and CH4 recycling?
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The Vital Link: Carbon Cycling in Ecosystems
Carbon cycling is the continuous journey of carbon atoms through the atmosphere, land, ocean, and living organisms. In ecosystems, it plays a crucial role in:
  • Primary productivity: Plants, algae, and some bacteria use photosynthesis to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into organic matter (like sugars and cellulose) - the foundation of life's energy flow.📷Opens in a new window📷en.wikipedia.orgPhotosynthesis process
  • Nutrient cycling: As dead organisms decompose, microbes break down organic matter, releasing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus back into the soil for other organisms to use. This decomposition also releases carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.
  • Climate regulation: Ecosystems act as carbon sinks, storing carbon in biomass and soil. Forests, in particular, are efficient carbon stores, with trees locking away vast amounts of carbon in their trunks, branches, and roots.
Microbial Masterminds: Maintaining Earth's Temperature
Microbes, the unseen heroes of the natural world, play a key role in maintaining Earth's temperature through their influence on carbon cycling:
  • Methane munchers: Methanotrophic microbes in soil and oceans consume methane, a potent greenhouse gas 25 times more effective than carbon dioxide at trapping heat. By breaking down methane, these microbes prevent its harmful accumulation in the atmosphere.📷Opens in a new window📷www.methanotroph.orgMethanotrophic microbes
  • Decomposition dynamos: Microbes in soil decompose organic matter, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. This process, though contributing to the greenhouse effect, also releases nutrients for plant growth, thus promoting primary productivity and carbon capture.
  • Thermostat regulators: The rate of microbial decomposition depends on temperature. In warmer environments, microbes decompose organic matter faster, releasing more carbon dioxide. However, this also increases plant growth and carbon capture, creating a feedback loop that can help regulate Earth's temperature.
Recycling Champions: Microbes and CO2 & CH4
Microbes are nature's recycling champions, playing a vital role in the breakdown and reuse of greenhouse gases:
  • CO2 conversion: Certain microbes, like chemoautotrophs, use carbon dioxide as their sole carbon source for energy production. This process, known as chemosynthesis, helps remove CO2 from the atmosphere and converts it into organic matter.📷Opens in a new window📷vectormine.comChemosynthesis process
  • Methane moderators: As mentioned earlier, methanotrophic microbes break down methane, preventing its harmful accumulation in the atmosphere. This helps mitigate the effects of methane emissions from sources like landfills, rice paddies, and natural gas leaks.
By understanding the intricate interplay between carbon cycling, microbes, and temperature regulation, we can gain valuable insights into maintaining a healthy planet. Protecting and fostering diverse microbial communities in ecosystems is crucial for ensuring the continued balance of our Earth's life-supporting systems.
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What microorganisms play a role in degrading waste in the form of plastic and role do microorganisms play in the decomposition of rock?
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Hey there Rk Naresh! Let me tell you Rk Naresh something cool – microorganisms are total rockstars when it comes to breaking down plastic waste! 🤯 Ideonella sakaiensis is one of the main players, munching on PET plastics like it's their favorite snack. They produce enzymes that break it down into smaller, more manageable pieces. 🧬 But that's not all – these tiny creatures also play a major role in geology! 🌎 Fungi, bacteria, and algae work together in something called bioweathering, which helps break down minerals in rocks over time. It's like they're nature's cleanup crew! 💪 So, what else are you Rk Naresh curious about? 🤔
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What microorganisms recycle nutrients by breaking down dead matter and waste and role of bacteria in decomposition of organic matter in soil?
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Hey there Rk Naresh! Well, well, well, talking about the unsung heroes of the dirt, aren't we? Look, when it comes to recycling nutrients in the soil, you've got an army of microorganisms doing the dirty work. Fungi, bacteria, and other microscopic critters are the MVPs in this nutrient recycling game.
Now, let's zoom in on our bacterial buddies. These little guys are like the sanitation workers of the soil. They break down dead organic matter, like fallen leaves, plant remains, or even deceased insects. It's like a microbial feast, and bacteria are the cleanup crew.
See, bacteria secrete enzymes that break down complex organic compounds into simpler forms. This decomposition process releases nutrients back into the soil, making them available for plants to suck up like nature's nutrient smoothie. It's a crucial part of the circle of life, my friend Rk Naresh.
So, next time you Rk Naresh stroll through a garden or a forest, just remember, beneath your feet, there's a bacterial party breaking down and recycling stuff like it's their job—because, well, it is. Nature's own cleanup crew, and they deserve a little appreciation, don't you think?
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What is the role of effective microorganisms of plant growth and role of microbes in biogeochemical cycling and energy flow?
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Microorganisms have the potential to improve plant growth under abiotic stress conditions by promoting the production of low-molecular-weight osmolytes, such as glycinebetaine, proline, and other amino acids, mineral phosphate solubilization, nitrogen fixation, organic acids, and producing key enzymes. Microorganisms play a dominant role in the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients. They are rightly praised for their facility for fixing both carbon and nitrogen into organic matter, and microbial driven processes have tangibly altered the chemical composition of the biosphere and its surrounding atmosphere. The soil microbes mediate the biogeochemical cycling for soil mineral nutrients availability such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur, which are the major growth-promoting nutrients to the plants. The microbes use organic carbon as their energy source to drive the recycling process. In their most obvious role in energy conversion, microorganisms can generate fuels, including ethanol, hydrogen, methane, lipids, and butanol, which can be burned to produce energy. Alternatively, bacteria can be put to use in microbial fuel cells, where they carry out the direct conversion of biomass into electricity. The microbe plays an essential role of organic matter degradation in nutrient cycling; microorganism present in soil digests the organic matter including dead organisms. The nutrients get released by the breakdown of the organic molecule to make it available for plants to uptake nutrients in the soil through roots. Beneficial microbes improve plant growth by enhancing the availability of nutrients, the regulation of phytohormones, and increasing plant tolerance against stresses. PGPM act as biofertilizer, increasing macro and micronutrient availability. Microbes are now well recognized as major drivers of the biogeochemical cycling that fuels the Earth, and their viruses (phages) are known to be abundant and important in microbial mortality, horizontal gene transfer, and modulating microbial metabolic output. Microorganisms play a primary role in regulating biogeochemical systems in virtually all of our planet’s environments. Microbes participate in essential biogeochemical cycling events such as carbon and nitrogen fixation. Two processes in which bacteria play important roles within biogeochemical cycles are decomposition and nitrogen fixation. Bacteria are very important as decomposers, because the process of decomposition allows the essential molecules and elements that are locked up in an organism to be released once it has died.Energy flows through an ecosystem and is dissipated as heat, but chemical elements are recycled. The ways in which an element or compound such as water moves between its various living and nonliving forms and locations in the biosphere is called a biogeochemical cycle.
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How are microorganisms important in nutrient availability and transformation in the soil and role of microorganisms in nitrogen cycling in soils?
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Microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling in soil. The composition and activity of microbiota impact the soil quality status, health, and nutrient enrichment. Microbes are essential for nutrient mobility and absorption. Through their varied functions, they stimulate plant growth and reduce diseases. Soil microorganisms are responsible for most of the nutrient release from organic matter. When microorganisms decompose organic matter, they use the carbon and nutrients in the organic matter for their own growth. They release excess nutrients into the soil where they can be taken up by plants. Beneficial microorganisms have been shown to play a role in atmospheric nitrogen fixation, organic wastes and residues decomposition, detoxification of pesticides, suppression of plant diseases and soil-borne pathogens, enhancement of nutrient cycling, and production of bioactive compounds such as vitamins, hormones. Minerals provide energy and nutrients to support microbial growth and functions. Microbes affect dissolution, transformation and formation of minerals through metabolic activities. These interactions between minerals and microbes substantially determine the habitability of the Earth. Microorganisms play an important role in improving soil fertility and involved in all aspects of N cycling, including N2 fixation, nitrification, denitrification and ammonification. They decompose plant residues, soil organic matter and release inorganic nutrients that can then be taken up by plants. Bacteria in the soil or in plant roots convert nitrogen gas from the environment into solid nitrogen molecules that plants can utilize in the soil. The bacteria within the nodules convert free nitrogen to nitrates, which the host plant uses for growth. Bacteria in the soil or in plant roots convert nitrogen gas from the environment into solid nitrogen molecules that plants can utilize in the soil. The bacteria within the nodules convert free nitrogen to nitrates, which the host plant uses for growth. Microorganisms increase the source of nitrogen in the soil, or they can supply it directly to the plant, as they have the ability to take and set nitrogen from the atmosphere. Microorganisms play an important role in improving soil fertility and involved in all aspects of N cycling, including N2 fixation, nitrification, denitrification and ammonification. They decompose plant residues, soil organic matter and release inorganic nutrients that can then be taken up by plants. The microbe plays an essential role of organic matter degradation in nutrient cycling; microorganism present in soil digests the organic matter including dead organisms. The nutrients get released by the breakdown of the organic molecule to make it available for plants to uptake nutrients in the soil through roots.
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What role do microbes play in the cycling of carbon and their possible influence on global warming and role of microorganisms in mineral recovery?
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Microbes play an important role in climate because they release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when they eat. Bacteria and their main predators, protists, account for more than 40 times the biomass of all animals on Earth. As a result, they have a huge effect on carbon dioxide emissions. Microbes are involved in many processes, including the carbon and nitrogen cycles, and are responsible for both using and producing greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane. Microbes can have positive and negative responses to temperature, making them an important component of climate change models. Soil microbes can break down plant organic matter to carbon dioxide or convert it to dissolved organic carbon (DOC) compounds. This leads either to long-term carbon storage, because DOC can bind to soil particles, or to the release of carbon back to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. Microbes found in soil and aquatic environments contribute directly to the ongoing rise in greenhouse gas emissions by producing key greenhouse gases: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). Microbes in aquatic and terrestrial environments produce and consume the greenhouse gases CO2, CH4 and N2O. The carbon cycle plays a key role in regulating Earth's global temperature and climate by controlling the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. The greenhouse effect itself is a naturally occurring phenomenon that makes Earth warm enough for life to exist. Through biomining process microorganisms are applied to recover precious minerals and metals of commercial significance from mining and industrial waste residues. This technology is also applied for environmental clean-up sites that have been contaminated with heavy metals and other emerging pollutants. Minerals provide energy and nutrients to support microbial growth and functions. Microbes affect dissolution, transformation and formation of minerals through metabolic activities. These interactions between minerals and microbes substantially determine the habitability of the Earth.
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Why are microorganisms important in soil agriculture and role of microorganisms in formation of soil organic matter?
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Soil organic matter and soil organisms are inextricably connected. Microbial biomass is the living component of soil organic matter, and microorganisms are the catalysts for most nutrient-releasing processes. They make it possible for crops to grow and for soils to be productive. Microorganisms are essential to soil formation and soil ecology because they control the flux of nutrients to plants promote nitrogen fixation, and promote soil detoxification of inorganic and naturally occurring organic pollutants. These organisms fix atmospheric nitrogen and supply it to plants. Biological fertilizers obtained from microorganisms are very good for improving soil quality and fertility. They are also environmentally friendly and do not cause any toxic or dangerous effects.Soil microorganisms promote the decomposition of organic matter by secreting enzymes. The changes of biochar on soil enzyme activity are affected by the interaction between biochar, enzymes, and enzyme substrates. The active sites of biochar can absorb or desorb enzymes and their substrates. Microorganisms play an important role in the nutrient cycle. Some bacteria (Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria) secrete phytochemicals and organic acids that are helpful in the growth and development of plants. Microorganisms help maintain soil pH but balance nutrients and minerals. Within food plant cropping systems, microorganisms provide vital functions and ecosystem services, such as biological pest and disease control, promotion of plant growth and crop quality, and biodegradation of organic matter and pollutants. Soil microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) are responsible for biomass decomposition, biogenic element circulation, which makes nutrients available to plants, biodegradation of impurities, and maintenance of soil structure. However, micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes–even though they go unnoticed in your compost pile–are responsible for most of the organic material breakdown. They are chemical decomposers because they use chemicals in their bodies to break down organic matter. One of the most important roles of soil organisms is breaking up the complex substances in decaying plants and animals so that they can be used again by living plants. This involves soil organisms as catalysts in a number of natural cycles, among the most prominent being the carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur cycles. Soil bacteria form microaggregates in the soil by binding soil particles together with their secretions. These microaggregates are like the building blocks for improving soil structure. Improved soil structure increases water infiltration and increases water holding capacity of the soil.
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What is the role of microorganisms in composting and humus formation and role of microorganisms in nutrient cycling in the carbon cycle?
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Dr Murtadha Shukur thank you for your contribution to discussion
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What is the role of microorganisms in mineral transformation and role of microbes in climate change and recycling?
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Hey there Rk Naresh! Let me drop some knowledge bombs about microorganisms and their role in mineral transformation. Now, these tiny powerhouses are like the unsung heroes of the geological world. Microbes play a crucial role in breaking down minerals through processes like weathering, dissolution, and redox reactions. They essentially act as nature's rock crushers, turning big chunks of minerals into more manageable bits.
When it comes to climate change, microbes are both the culprits and the fixers. Some produce greenhouse gases like methane, contributing to the warming of the planet. On the flip side, certain microbes are climate change warriors, locking away carbon in the soil and helping regulate the carbon cycle.
As for recycling, microbes are the OG recyclers. They break down organic matter, decompose waste, and play a fundamental role in nutrient cycling. Without them, our planet would drown in its own mess.
In a nutshell, microorganisms are like the unseen architects of Earth, shaping landscapes, influencing climate, and keeping the circle of life spinning. Cheers to the microbial maestros!
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What is the role of microorganisms in reducing soil pollution and relationship between microorganisms in soil and plants?
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Microorganisms play a crucial role in reducing soil pollution and maintaining a healthy relationship with plants. They act as nature's tiny janitors, cleaning up contaminants and transforming them into harmless substances. Here's how:
Biodegradation: Microorganisms, like bacteria and fungi, possess amazing metabolic diversity, allowing them to break down a wide range of pollutants, including:
  • Organic pollutants: Pesticides, herbicides, and petroleum products can be degraded by microbes into simpler organic compounds, eventually releasing them as water, carbon dioxide, and nutrients for plants.
  • Inorganic pollutants: Heavy metals like lead and arsenic can be immobilized or transformed into less harmful forms by microorganisms, reducing their bioavailability and toxicity to plants.
Bioremediation: This technology harness the power of microorganisms to clean up contaminated soil. Specific microbes are introduced or stimulated in the soil to target and degrade the pollutants present. Bioremediation is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional remediation methods.
Relationship between soil microorganisms and plants: The relationship between soil microbes and plants is symbiotic, meaning both organisms benefit from each other's presence.
  • Nutrient cycling: Microorganisms decompose organic matter, releasing essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus that plants can readily absorb.
  • Disease resistance: Certain microbes produce antibiotics and other compounds that suppress harmful soilborne pathogens, protecting plants from diseases.
  • Root growth promotion: Some microbes stimulate plant root growth by producing hormones and solubilizing nutrients, enhancing the plant's ability to acquire water and nutrients.
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Microorganisms in soil and plants relationship
Maintaining a healthy soil microbiome:
  • Minimize chemical use: Excessive use of pesticides and herbicides can disrupt the delicate balance of soil microbial communities, reducing their effectiveness in biodegradation and plant growth promotion.
  • Practice organic farming: Incorporating organic matter like compost and manure into the soil provides food and energy for beneficial microbes, boosting their populations and activity.
  • Crop rotation: Planting different types of crops helps diversify the soil microbial community, reducing the prevalence of disease-causing pathogens and promoting overall soil health.
By fostering a diverse and thriving soil microbial community, we can ensure cleaner soil, healthier plants, and a more sustainable agricultural future.
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What is the main role of microorganisms in decomposition and role of microorganisms in recycling the organic matter in a dead animal?
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Microorganisms: Nature's Recycling Team
In the grand orchestra of life, decomposers play a crucial role, and microorganisms are the star performers when it comes to recycling organic matter, including in the unfortunate event of a dead animal. Here's how they break down the show:
1. The Decomposers' Feast:
Microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and archaea are nature's ultimate recyclers. They have a diverse menu, readily consuming the complex organic molecules in a dead animal's body. Bacteria are the early birds, breaking down sugars, proteins, and fats into simpler compounds. Fungi join the party later, their thread-like hyphae reaching deeper tissues and secreting enzymes that digest tougher materials like cellulose. Archaea, meanwhile, specialize in processing specific molecules like methane or ammonia.
2. A Symphony of Transformation:
As these tiny maestros work their magic, several key transformations occur:
  • Decomposition: Microorganisms break down large molecules into smaller ones, making them available for other organisms in the ecosystem.
  • Nutrient Cycling: Essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon are released from the dead animal and returned to the soil and water, where they can be used by plants and other organisms.
  • Waste Treatment: Microorganisms help break down harmful byproducts like methane and ammonia, preventing them from polluting the environment.
3. A Stage for New Life:
The decomposition process isn't just about breaking things down; it also paves the way for new life to flourish. The nutrients released by microorganisms nourish plants, which in turn support herbivores and the entire food web. In this way, the death of one animal becomes the foundation for new life.
It's important to remember that this process is essential for the healthy functioning of ecosystems. Without decomposers, dead organisms would simply accumulate, leading to nutrient imbalances and environmental problems. So, the next time you see a dead animal, remember the invisible orchestra of microorganisms working tirelessly to recycle its remains and give life a second chance.
Creative Note:
Imagine the decomposing animal as a stage, where each type of microorganism plays a specific role. Bacteria are the bustling stagehands, breaking down the set pieces. Fungi are the spotlight operators, reaching into every corner with their filaments. Archaea are the sound technicians, ensuring the smooth flow of nutrients. Together, they create a beautiful and vital performance, ensuring the circle of life continues.
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What are the ecological roles of microorganisms and role of micro organisms in the decomposition of organic matter and recycling of carbon?
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Ecological Roles of Microorganisms:
Microorganisms, despite their tiny size, play immense roles in maintaining healthy and functioning ecosystems. Some of their crucial ecological roles include:
  • Decomposition: They break down dead and decaying organisms, like plants and animals, into simpler nutrients. These nutrients are then absorbed by plants and incorporated back into the food chain. This process is essential for recycling organic matter and returning crucial elements like carbon and nitrogen to the ecosystem.
  • Nutrient cycling: Microorganisms participate in various biogeochemical cycles, including the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles. They facilitate the movement and transformation of these essential elements throughout the ecosystem, making them available for other organisms.
  • Oxygen production: Photosynthetic bacteria and some cyanobacteria contribute to oxygen production, creating the breathable atmosphere we rely on.
  • Symbiotic relationships: Many microorganisms form symbiotic relationships with plants and animals. For example, certain bacteria living in the roots of legumes fix atmospheric nitrogen, making it available for plant growth. Other microbes in our gut aid in digestion and produce essential vitamins.
  • Disease control: Some microorganisms can help control populations of harmful pathogens and contribute to overall ecosystem health.
  • Bioremediation: Microbes can be used to clean up pollutants, such as oil spills and heavy metals, through their natural degrading abilities.
Role of Microorganisms in Decomposition and Carbon Recycling:
Decomposition is a critical process in which microorganisms play the starring role. Here's how they contribute to the breakdown of organic matter and carbon recycling:
  1. Decomposers: Bacteria, fungi, and other microbes act as decomposers, secreting enzymes that break down complex organic molecules in dead organisms into smaller, simpler ones. They then absorb these simpler molecules for their own energy and growth.
  2. Nutrient release: During decomposition, nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other minerals are released from the decaying matter. These nutrients become available for plant uptake and are incorporated back into the food chain.
  3. Carbon cycling: Microorganisms play a vital role in the global carbon cycle, the circulation of carbon through the atmosphere, land, and oceans. They sequester carbon in their bodies and release it back into the atmosphere through respiration. Additionally, they contribute to the formation of soil organic matter, which stores carbon for long periods.
The efficient decomposition and nutrient recycling by microorganisms are essential for maintaining fertile soil, supporting plant growth, and regulating the Earth's climate. Any disruption to these processes can have significant consequences for the health and stability of ecosystems.
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What role do microbes play in energy transfer and role of microorganisms in the nitrification of soil?
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Microbes: Masters of Energy Transfer and Soil Nitrification
Microscopic but mighty, microbes play a crucial role in both energy transfer and soil nitrification, acting as unseen puppeteers behind the scenes of ecosystems. Let's delve into their remarkable work:
Energy Transfer:
  1. Decomposition: Microbes like bacteria and fungi are nature's decomposers, breaking down dead organic matter (plants, animals) into simpler molecules. This process releases stored energy, making it available for other organisms. Bacteria like decomposers, fermenters, and methanogens specialize in extracting energy from various organic compounds, contributing to different stages of decomposition.
  2. Chemosynthesis: Certain bacteria, called chemoautotrophs, don't rely on sunlight for energy. They harness the chemical energy from inorganic compounds like sulfur, methane, or hydrogen sulfide to fuel their metabolic processes. These specialized microbes play a vital role in ecosystems where photosynthesis is limited, like deep-sea hydrothermal vents or cave systems.
  3. Symbiosis: Many microbes form symbiotic relationships with other organisms, exchanging resources and energy. For example, nitrogen-fixing bacteria live in nodules on plant roots, converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, while receiving sugars in return. This mutually beneficial partnership enhances plant growth and ecosystem productivity.
Soil Nitrification:
  1. Ammonia Production: The first step in nitrification is the conversion of organic nitrogen (from dead matter) into ammonia (NH3) by ammonifying bacteria. These microbes break down proteins and amino acids, releasing ammonia as a waste product.
  2. Nitrite Conversion: Next, nitrifying bacteria take over. These specialized microbes come in two flavors: Nitrosomonas converts ammonia to nitrite (NO2-), while Nitrobacter further oxidizes nitrite to nitrate (NO3-).
  3. Plant Uptake: Nitrate is the primary form of nitrogen utilized by plants for growth and development. It is readily absorbed by plant roots and incorporated into essential molecules like proteins and nucleic acids.
Significance of Microbes in Nitrification:
  • Fertile Soils: By making nitrogen readily available, nitrifying microbes contribute to soil fertility, supporting healthy plant growth and agricultural productivity.
  • Global Nitrogen Cycle: Microbes play a crucial role in the global nitrogen cycle, ensuring this essential element circulates through the environment, supporting life across ecosystems.
  • Wastewater Treatment: Nitrifying bacteria are crucial in wastewater treatment plants, helping to break down nitrogenous waste and prevent environmental pollution.
So, the next time you step outside and marvel at the lush greenery, remember the invisible army of microbes silently working beneath your feet, transferring energy and ensuring the healthy flow of nitrogen in the soil. They are the unseen heroes of our planet's ecosystems, quietly shaping the world we live in.
I hope this explanation sheds light on the multifaceted roles of microbes in energy transfer and soil nitrification. Feel free to ask any further questions you may have!
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What are the functions of soil organisms that support plant health and how do microorganisms contribute to the health and characteristics of soil?
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The Vital Roles of Soil Organisms in Plant Health and Soil Quality
The teeming world beneath our feet plays a crucial role in the health and vitality of plants above. A diverse community of soil organisms, from microscopic bacteria and fungi to larger earthworms and arthropods, all contribute in fascinating ways to plant health and soil characteristics. Let's delve into their specific functions:
Nutrient Cycling:
  • Decomposition: Bacteria and fungi are nature's decomposers, breaking down dead plant and animal matter into simpler organic compounds. This releases essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making them available for plants to absorb.
  • Nitrogen fixation: Bacteria like Rhizobia have a special talent – they can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants. This is particularly important for legumes like beans and peas, which can then share this fixed nitrogen with other plants in the ecosystem.
Soil Structure and aeration:
  • Earthworms and burrowing arthropods: These larger soil dwellers act as tiny tractors, aerating the soil by creating channels and mixing organic matter with mineral soil. This improves drainage, prevents waterlogging, and allows plant roots to penetrate deeper.
  • Fungi: Their extensive network of thread-like hyphae bind soil particles together, forming aggregates that improve soil structure and stability. This prevents erosion and helps retain water and nutrients.
Plant Protection:
  • Microorganisms: Certain bacteria and fungi can suppress harmful plant pathogens like fungi and bacteria. They may produce antibiotics or compete for resources with the pathogens, hindering their growth and protecting plant health.
  • Predatory nematodes: These microscopic worms munch on other nematodes, some of which can parasitize plant roots. By keeping these harmful nematodes in check, predatory nematodes contribute to plant health.
Beyond these specific functions, microorganisms also contribute to overall soil health and characteristics in several ways:
  • Organic matter cycling: They break down organic matter, releasing vital nutrients and creating humus, a sponge-like substance that improves soil structure, water holding capacity, and fertility.
  • Enhanced nutrient availability: Microorganisms can solubilize nutrients locked up in minerals, making them more accessible to plants.
  • Disease suppression: Some microorganisms produce compounds that can suppress soilborne diseases, protecting plants from harmful pathogens.
In conclusion, the seemingly invisible world of soil organisms plays a critical role in supporting plant health and maintaining healthy, fertile soil. From nutrient cycling and soil structure to plant protection and disease suppression, these tiny creatures are the unsung heroes of thriving ecosystems. By understanding and appreciating their vital contributions, we can better manage our soils and ensure the health and productivity of our plants.
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What is the role of effective microorganisms of plant growth and role of microorganisms in recycling of carbon and nitrogen through air and soil?
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Effective Microorganisms and Plant Growth:
Effective microorganisms (EM) are a mixed culture of beneficial bacteria and fungi that can significantly impact plant growth. They work in several ways:
Promoting nutrient uptake: EM microbes can help unlock nutrients otherwise unavailable to plants, like phosphates, through a process called solubilization. Additionally, they can fix atmospheric nitrogen, making it directly accessible to plants. Boosting soil health: EM improves soil structure and aeration by promoting the decomposition of organic matter. This leads to better water retention and the production of essential soil nutrients. Enhancing photosynthesis: Some EM microbes produce plant growth hormones like auxins and cytokinins, stimulating plant growth and photosynthesis. Suppressing diseases: EM creates a competitive environment in the soil, making it harder for harmful pathogens to establish themselves. This can decrease plant diseases and pest infestations.
Overall, EM application can lead to higher yields, improved plant quality, and increased resistance to stress conditions.
Microorganisms in Carbon and Nitrogen Recycling:
Microorganisms play a crucial role in the continuous cycling of carbon and nitrogen through the air and soil, forming the backbone of terrestrial ecosystems. Here's how:
Nitrogen cycle:
  • Nitrogen fixation: Certain bacteria (e.g., Rhizobia) can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants through a process called nitrogen fixation.
  • Decomposition: Microbes break down organic matter, releasing nitrogen back into the soil.
  • Nitrification: Some bacteria convert ammonium released during decomposition into nitrite and nitrate, readily absorbed by plants.
  • Denitrification: Other microbes convert nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen under certain conditions.
Carbon cycle:
  • Decomposition: Microbes break down dead organisms and organic matter, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.
  • Photosynthesis: Plants use carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to produce organic compounds during photosynthesis.
  • Methanogenesis: Anaerobic microbes in wetlands produce methane, another important form of carbon, from organic matter.
In essence, these cycles ensure the continuous circulation of these essential elements between the atmosphere, soil, and living organisms, sustaining life on Earth.
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What are the factors that can affect microorganisms if all types of microbes can grow in soil and role of microorganisms in the conversion of mineral in soil?
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You're right, while various types of microbes can potentially reside in soil, their growth and activities are definitely not guaranteed and can be influenced by a range of factors. Here are some key ones:
Abiotic factors:
  • Temperature: Different microbes thrive at different temperature ranges. Some prefer the cozy warmth, while others tolerate chilly environments. Outside their ideal range, their activity slows down or stops altogether.
  • Moisture: Water is essential for life, and microbes are no exception. Too little water leaves them desiccated, while too much can suffocate them by blocking airflow. Finding the right balance is crucial.
  • pH: Similar to temperature, microbes have preferred pH ranges. Acidic (low pH) or alkaline (high pH) soils can hinder their growth and function.
  • Oxygen: Some microbes are aerobes, requiring oxygen for survival, while others are anaerobes, thriving in oxygen-depleted environments. Soil aeration therefore plays a significant role in determining which microbes will dominate.
  • Nutrient availability: Microbes need nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus to grow and reproduce. The presence and amounts of these nutrients in the soil will impact the types and activity levels of microbes present.
  • Organic matter: Soil organic matter serves as a source of food and energy for microbes. Soils with higher organic matter content generally support a more diverse and active microbial community.
  • Soil texture: Sandy soils drain quickly and have fewer water-holding spaces, whereas clay soils retain water better. These differences in texture influence moisture levels and air availability, impacting microbial communities.
Biotic factors:
  • Competition: Different microbes compete for resources like space, nutrients, and even prey. This competition can influence the abundance and diversity of microbial populations.
  • Predation: Protozoa, nematodes, and other soil organisms prey on microbes, regulating their populations and influencing their activities.
  • Symbiosis: Some microbes form mutually beneficial relationships with plants or other organisms. These partnerships can enhance nutrient availability, improve plant growth, and influence overall soil health.
Role of microorganisms in mineral conversion:
Microorganisms play a vital role in breaking down and transforming minerals in the soil. Some important examples include:
  • Weathering: Certain microbes produce organic acids that dissolve minerals, making them more readily available for plants.
  • Nitrogen fixation: Some bacteria can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants.
  • Phosphorus mineralization: Microbes help release phosphorus from organic matter and minerals, making it accessible to plants.
  • Decomposition: Microbes decompose organic matter, releasing nutrients back into the soil and contributing to soil fertility.
By understanding the factors that influence microorganisms and their roles in mineral conversion, we can better manage soil health and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
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What are the role of microbes in soil fertility and how microorganisms are important for maintaining of health soil and biodiversity?
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Microbes can make nutrients and minerals in the soil available to plants, produce hormones that spur growth, stimulate the plant immune system and trigger or dampen stress responses. In general a more diverse soil microbiome results in fewer plant diseases and higher yield. Soil microorganisms are responsible for most of the nutrient release from organic matter. When microorganisms decompose organic matter, they use the carbon and nutrients in the organic matter for their own growth. They release excess nutrients into the soil where they can be taken up by plants. Microorganisms help in cleaning up the environment. They decompose dead and decaying matter from plants and animals; convert them into simpler substances which are later used up by other plants and animals. Thus, they are used to breakdown harmful substances. Microbes help the break down organic matter from dead plants and animals and incorporate it into the soil, which increases the soil's organic content, improves soil structure, and helps plants thrive. Microorganisms help break down organic matter, they release essential nutrients and carbon dioxide into the soil, fix nitrogen and help transform nutrients into mineral forms that plants can use through a process called mineralization and nitrogen fixing bacteria improve soil fertility. Soil microbes decompose organic substances present in soil and become instrumental to transform unavailable forms of nutrients to their available form for crops. During the decomposition of plant residues in soil, the distribution and population dynamics of soil microorganisms are significantly influenced. They increase soil fertility by incorporating air, minerals and nitrogenous compounds. They contribute in increasing plant growth by providing essential elements, minerals that plants cannot utilize by their Owen. Microorganisms decompose organic matter to simpler form that can be easily uptake by plants. Microorganisms play essential roles in biogeochemical processes, and the disturbance of these microbial systems on a global scale may result in dramatic ecological issues, such as disruptions of food webs due to nutrient cycling changes, and increased greenhouse gas production due to alterations of the carbon cycle. Microorganisms form part of that cycle, and because of their huge numbers, the part they play is an important one. Microorganisms have several vital roles in ecosystems: decomposition, oxygen production, evolution, and symbiotic relationships.
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How do microorganisms in the soil release carbon from dead matter and role of microorganisms in carbon cycling in soil?
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Microorganisms play a crucial role in the breakdown and decomposition of dead matter in the soil, releasing carbon back into the atmosphere as part of the intricate carbon cycle. Let's delve into the fascinating work of these tiny soil superheroes:
Decomposers' Feast:
Imagine the soil as a bustling restaurant for microorganisms. Dead plant and animal matter (leaves, twigs, carcasses) are the main course, and a diverse crew of microbes arrives eager to partake. Bacteria, fungi, and other decomposers act like culinary experts, each specializing in different components of the feast.
  • Bacteria: These tiny chefs excel at breaking down simpler molecules like sugars and starches. They use these as fuel for their own growth and release carbon dioxide (CO2) as a byproduct.
  • Fungi: Think of them as the master shredders. Their thread-like hyphae reach deep into the dead matter, breaking down complex carbohydrates and lignin, a tough component of plant cell walls. Fungi also contribute to CO2 release.
  • Archaea: These extremophiles thrive in harsh environments like oxygen-deprived soils. They specialize in breaking down methane, another important greenhouse gas, and convert it to CO2.
Carbon Cycle Symphony:
The release of CO2 by these decomposers is just one act in the grand symphony of the carbon cycle. Plants absorb CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis, incorporating it into organic matter. When plants and animals die, the decomposers return the carbon to the atmosphere, completing the loop.
Beyond Decomposition:
Microorganisms not only release carbon, but also play a crucial role in its storage and transformation within the soil. Some microbes, like certain bacteria, can fix atmospheric nitrogen, making it available for plants. Others form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, helping them absorb nutrients and water. These interactions contribute to healthy soil and plant growth, ultimately influencing the overall carbon storage capacity of ecosystems.
Understanding the Microverse:
Studying the diverse communities of microorganisms in the soil is crucial for understanding and managing the carbon cycle. By fostering healthy soil ecosystems with practices like organic farming and reduced tillage, we can encourage the activities of beneficial microbes and promote efficient carbon sequestration. This, in turn, can help mitigate the effects of climate change.
So, the next time you tread on the ground, remember the invisible army of microorganisms toiling beneath your feet, constantly shaping the world around us through their tireless work in the carbon cycle. They may be small, but their impact is truly monumental!
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What are the healths and economic uses of microorganisms and ways microorganisms maintain the health of ecosystems?
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Microorganisms are tiny powerhouses that play a crucial role in both our health and the health of our planet. Let's dive into their incredible world:
Health Uses:
  • Probiotics: These "good" bacteria live in our gut and support digestion, immune function, and overall health. Yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics.
  • Antibiotics: These drugs, derived from microorganisms like fungi and bacteria, combat pathogenic microbes, saving countless lives from infectious diseases.
  • Vaccines: Weakened or inactive microorganisms used in vaccines train our immune system to fight off future infections, preventing epidemics.
  • Bioremediation: Microbes can be used to clean up oil spills, degrade pollution, and even extract heavy metals from contaminated sites.
  • Medical research: Microorganisms serve as model organisms for studying human diseases and developing new therapies.
Economic Uses:
  • Food production: Yeast makes bread rise, bacteria ferments yogurt and cheese, and microbes break down plant matter into compost, enriching soil for agriculture.
  • Biofuels: Microbes can be used to produce ethanol, biodiesel, and other renewable fuels, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
  • Industrial processes: Microbes are used in manufacturing enzymes, chemicals, and even plastics, replacing polluting and unsustainable methods.
  • Wastewater treatment: Microbes naturally break down organic matter in wastewater, helping to maintain clean water supplies.
  • Biomining: Microbes can be used to extract metals and minerals from low-grade ores, making mining more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Maintaining Ecosystem Health:
  • Decomposition: Microbes break down dead organisms, returning nutrients to the soil and releasing energy for other organisms.
  • Nitrogen fixation: Some bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, vital for ecosystem productivity.
  • Symbiotic relationships: Many plants and animals rely on microbes for nutrients, protection from pathogens, and other essential functions.
  • Biogeochemical cycles: Microbes play a key role in cycles like carbon, nitrogen, and water, ensuring the healthy functioning of ecosystems.
It's important to remember that not all microorganisms are beneficial. Some cause diseases, and others can contribute to environmental problems like algal blooms. However, the overwhelming majority of microbes are essential for both human health and the health of our planet. By understanding and harnessing their power, we can unlock sustainable solutions for many of the challenges we face.
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How are microorganisms important for the survival of ecosystems and types of microorganisms living in soil help to store carbon?
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The most significant effect of the microbes on earth is their ability to recycle the primary elements that make up all living systems, especially carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen (N). Primary production involves photosynthetic organisms which take up CO2 from the atmosphere and convert it to organic (cellular) material. Microbial communities make the essential elements of oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur available for other life on our planet. Without microbial decomposer communities, life would be smothered in dead organisms. Microorganisms recycle nutrients. Decomposers break down organic matter of dead plants & animals. Some bacteria living on the ocean floor feed on oil that seeps from the ground. But microbes don't just eat nature's waste, they recycle it. The process of decomposition releases chemicals that can be used to build new plants and animals. Microbes are responsible for both production and destruction of foodstuffs and are a key element in reducing waste from spoilage. Some microorganisms can degrade plastics, toxins, and agricultural waste, but some convert excess fertilizer to nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. In microbial energy technologies, microorganisms make fuels out of raw organic materials, thereby converting the chemical energy in the biomass into chemical energy in the form of ethanol or hydrogen, for example. In addition, microbes can convert solar energy to hydrogen. The underlying mechanisms of adaptable microbial nature are thoroughly investigated at the cellular, genetic and molecular levels. The adaptation is mediated by a spectrum of processes like natural selection, genetic recombination, horizontal gene transfer, DNA damage repair and pleiotropy-like events. Of particular note in soil carbon cycling is the role of the mycorrhizal fungi. These range from obligate symbionts that can only obtain carbon from the host plant, i.e. the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), to facultative symbionts that can also mineralise organic carbon, e.g. the ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECM). Soil carbon can be either organic (1550 GT) or inorganic carbon (950 GT). The latter consists of elemental carbon and carbonate materials such as calcite, dolomite, and gypsum. The amount of carbon found in living plants and animals is comparatively small relative to that found in soil (560 GT). Carbon is sequestered in soil by plants through photosynthesis and can be stored as soil organic carbon (SOC). Agroecosystems can degrade and deplete the SOC levels but this carbon deficit opens up the opportunity to store carbon through new land management practices. Soil can also store carbon as carbonates.