Summary
This systematic literature review synthesises three decades of research on the functional roles of soil bacteria, fungi, and archaea in plant-soil systems. The authors demonstrate that these three microbial groups collectively regulate nutrient cycling (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium dissolution), organic matter decomposition, symbiotic relationships, and plant growth hormone production, whilst also suppressing pathogens and inducing plant resistance. The review identifies practical applications of microbial principles in soil remediation, biofertiliser development, and pollution reduction, positioning microbial management as central to ecosystem restoration and resilience.
Regional applicability
The mechanistic principles identified apply universally to soil biology, and UK agricultural and environmental practitioners could adapt the microbial management strategies discussed for application in temperate soil systems and degraded land restoration. However, the review does not provide UK-specific field validation or climate-adjusted recommendations for implementation in British farming conditions.
Key measures
Publication trends in soil microbiology research; mechanisms of microbial influence on soil development and plant growth; applications in environmental remediation and biofertiliser production
Outcomes reported
The systematic review synthesised 30 years of literature on how soil bacteria, fungi, and archaea influence plant growth and soil development through multiple mechanisms including nutrient cycling, hormone production, and pathogen suppression. The review also documented applications of microbial principles in soil remediation, biofertiliser production, and environmental pollution reduction.
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