Soil Nitrogen Ecology

Discoveries about the nitrogen cycle in the soil, including nitrogen fixation, distribution, occurrence, soil microflora and fauna, plant growth-promoting microbes, and metagenomics, are discussed in this book. It provides insights into the ecology of nitrogen biotransformations in soil and helps bridge knowledge gaps.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 568 pages
Publication date: 26 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the latest discoveries surrounding the nitrogen cycle in soil, providing a thorough exploration of this vital ecological process. It begins by introducing the concept of nitrogen fixation, a crucial process by which certain microorganisms convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can utilize. The book then delves into the diverse aspects of nitrogen in soil, including its distribution, occurrence, and interactions with soil microflora and fauna. It sheds light on the crucial role of these organisms in nitrogen fixation, emphasizing their significance in sustainable agriculture. Additionally, the book discusses the importance of plant growth-promoting microbes, such as arbuscular mycorrhizae, in N-fixation and explores the realm of metagenomics, microbe-plant signal transduction, and related aspects of nitrogen ecology. By bridging the main gaps in knowledge, this book offers insightful perspectives on the ecology of biotransformations of nitrogen in soil, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and professionals in the field.

Introduction:
The nitrogen cycle is a fundamental ecological process that plays a crucial role in the maintenance of life on Earth. It involves the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into various forms that plants can utilize for growth and sustenance. This cycle is facilitated by a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and archaea, which contribute to nitrogen fixation, denitrification, and ammonification. Understanding the dynamics of the nitrogen cycle is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Concept of Nitrogen Fixation:
Nitrogen fixation is the process by which certain microorganisms, such as bacteria and archaea, convert atmospheric nitrogen into biologically usable forms. This process occurs in two main stages: nitrogen assimilation and nitrogen reduction. Nitrogen assimilation involves the uptake of atmospheric nitrogen by bacteria and the subsequent conversion into amino acids and other nitrogen-rich compounds. Nitrogen reduction, on the other hand, involves the reduction of nitrate or nitrite to ammonia or nitrous oxide by specialized bacteria.
Distribution and Occurrence of Nitrogen in Soil:
Nitrogen is present in soil in various forms, including organic nitrogen, inorganic nitrogen, and ammonium. Organic nitrogen is derived from the decomposition of organic matter and is the most readily available form of nitrogen for plant growth. Inorganic nitrogen, on the other hand, is primarily derived from the application of fertilizers and other nitrogen-rich materials. Ammonium is a intermediate form of nitrogen that is produced by the breakdown of organic nitrogen and is readily available to plants.
Soil Microflora and Fauna:
Soil microflora and fauna play a critical role in the nitrogen cycle. Bacteria, fungi, and archaea are the primary nitrogen-fixing organisms in soil, while nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria contribute to the conversion of nitrate and nitrite to ammonia and nitrous oxide. These microorganisms also play a role in the decomposition of organic matter, which releases nitrogen into the soil. In addition, soil fauna, such as earthworms and termites, contribute to the turnover of soil organic matter and the recycling of nutrients, including nitrogen.
Role of Plant Growth-Promoting Microbes in Sustainable Agriculture:
Plant growth-promoting microbes, such as arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM), are essential for sustainable agriculture. AM are fungi that form symbiotic associations with plant roots. They enhance the plant's ability to uptake and utilize nutrients, including nitrogen, by colonizing the plant's roots. AM also improve soil structure, increase water-holding capacity, and suppress soil-borne pathogens. In addition, AM promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and fungi in the soil, which further contributes to the nitrogen cycle.
Perspectives of Metagenomics, Microbe-Plant Signal Transduction, and Related Aspects:
Metagenomics is a powerful tool for studying the diversity and abundance of microorganisms in soil. It involves the analysis of genetic material from soil samples, allowing researchers to identify new and unknown microorganisms and their potential roles in the nitrogen cycle. Microbe-plant signal transduction is a process by which microorganisms communicate with plants to regulate their growth and development. It involves the production of small molecules, such as hormones and signaling peptides, that are exchanged between plants and microorganisms. This communication plays a critical role in the regulation of nitrogen metabolism and the development of symbiotic relationships.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book highlights the latest discoveries about the nitrogen cycle in soil. It introduces the concept of nitrogen fixation and covers important aspects of nitrogen in soil and ecology such as its distribution and occurrence, soil microflora and fauna and their role in N-fixation. The importance of plant growth-promoting microbes for a sustainable agriculture, e.g. arbuscular mycorrhizae in N-fixation, is discussed as well as perspectives of metagenomics, microbe-plant signal transduction in N-ecology and related aspects. This book enables the reader to bridge the main gaps in knowledge and carefully presents perspectives on the ecology of biotransformations of nitrogen in soil.

Weight: 878g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030712082
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021