Review
Open Access
Soil Microbiome Diversity and Sustainable Agriculture: A Meta-Analysis
Maria Santos
Corresponding
University of São Paulo
Transdisciplinary Agora for Future Discussions Journal · Volume 12, Issue 1 · pp. 35-52
ISSN 2643-4938 (Online) · ISSN 2769-0490 (Print)
Published: 10 Apr 2024
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156 downloads
4 citations
Abstract
This meta-analysis synthesizes findings from 127 studies examining the relationship between soil microbiome diversity and agricultural sustainability. Our analysis demonstrates that practices promoting microbial diversity are associated with improved nutrient cycling, enhanced disease suppression, and increased crop resilience to environmental stresses.
Introduction
The soil microbiome plays a critical role in ecosystem functioning and agricultural productivity. Understanding the diversity-function relationship in soil microbial communities is essential for developing sustainable farming practices. This meta-analysis examines 127 peer-reviewed studies to quantify the impact of microbiome diversity on key agricultural outcomes.
Methods
We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies published between 2010 and 2024. Studies were included if they reported quantitative measures of soil microbial diversity and at least one agricultural outcome variable. Effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences.
Results
Higher soil microbial diversity was significantly associated with improved nutrient cycling (ES = 0.72, p < 0.001), disease suppression (ES = 0.58, p < 0.001), and crop yield stability (ES = 0.45, p < 0.01). The relationship was strongest in organic and diversified farming systems.
Conclusion
Our meta-analysis provides strong evidence supporting the importance of soil microbiome diversity for sustainable agriculture. Farming practices that enhance microbial diversity should be promoted as part of integrated soil management strategies.
References
- Fierer, N. (2017). Embracing the unknown: disentangling the complexities of soil microbiome. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 15(10), 579-590.
- Bardgett, R.D. & van der Putten, W.H. (2014). Below-ground biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Nature, 515, 505-511.