Sustainable Agriculture Reviews 60: Microbial Processes in Agriculture

This book highlights the latest advances in microbial processes for managing soils to produce food and energy, focusing on genomic tools, microbial interactions, nutrient mobilization, waste management, and stress tolerance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 458 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The impact of climate change on agriculture is becoming increasingly evident, highlighting the urgent need for advanced methods and practices to manage soils effectively for food and energy production. In this comprehensive book, we delve into the latest advancements in microbial processes that play a crucial role in controlling plant growth. We explore genomic tools, microbial interactions with plants and soils, nutrient mobilization, agricultural waste management, biodegradation, bioremediation, carbon sequestration, land reclamation, plant growth promotion, pathogen suppression, induced systemic resistance, and tolerance against biotic and abiotic stresses.

Microbial processes are essential in regulating plant growth and development. Genomic tools, such as DNA sequencing and bioinformatics, have revolutionized our understanding of microbial communities and their functions in soil. By analyzing the genetic makeup of microorganisms, researchers can identify specific genes and pathways involved in plant growth promotion, nutrient uptake, and stress tolerance.

Microbial interactions with plants play a vital role in determining soil health and crop productivity. These interactions can involve symbiotic relationships, such as nitrogen fixation and mycorrhizal associations, as well as antagonistic interactions, such as competition for resources. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing effective management strategies that promote plant growth while minimizing soil degradation.

Nutrient mobilization is a critical aspect of soil management, as plants require essential nutrients for growth and development. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, play a key role in breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients that can be taken up by plants. Techniques such as composting, crop rotation, and the application of organic fertilizers can enhance nutrient availability and improve soil fertility.

Agricultural waste management is a significant challenge facing agriculture today. The accumulation of organic waste, such as crop residues, livestock manure, and municipal solid waste, can lead to soil degradation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Effective waste management strategies, such as recycling, composting, and anaerobic digestion, can reduce the environmental impact of agricultural activities and promote soil health.

Biodegradation is the process by which microorganisms degrade organic pollutants and waste materials. It plays a crucial role in cleaning up contaminated environments and promoting soil health. Techniques such as bioremediation, phytoremediation, and bioaugmentation can be used to enhance biodegradation and promote the recovery of polluted soils.

Carbon sequestration is the process by which carbon dioxide (CO2) is captured and stored in the soil and vegetation. It is an important strategy for mitigating climate change, as CO2 is a major greenhouse gas. Techniques such as agroforestry, conservation tillage, and the use of cover crops can enhance carbon sequestration and promote sustainable agriculture.

Land reclamation is the process of restoring degraded or abandoned land to productive use. It is particularly important in areas where soil quality has been compromised by industrial activities, mining, or urbanization. Techniques such as soil remediation, terracing, and the planting of native vegetation can help restore land productivity and promote biodiversity.

Plant growth promotion is the process of enhancing plant growth and development through various techniques, such as the application of fertilizers, pesticides, and biostimulants. It is important for improving crop yields and reducing the reliance on chemical inputs. Techniques such as precision agriculture, genetic engineering, and the use of biocontrol agents can be used to promote plant growth.

Pathogen suppression is the process of preventing or controlling the growth of plant pathogens. It is important for maintaining crop health and reducing the loss of yield due to disease outbreaks. Techniques such as crop rotation, the use of resistant varieties, and the application of biocontrol agents can be used to suppress plant pathogens.

Induced systemic resistance and tolerance against biotic and abiotic stresses are important strategies for promoting plant resilience and adaptability. These mechanisms allow plants to respond to environmental stresses, such as drought, heat, and pests, by developing defense mechanisms that protect them from damage. Techniques such as genetic engineering, epigenetic regulation, and the use of stress-tolerant varieties can be used to enhance systemic resistance and tolerance.

In conclusion, the impact of climate change on agriculture is significant, and advanced methods and practices are needed to manage soils effectively for food and energy production. This book presents the latest advances in microbial processes that control plant growth, with a focus on genomic tools, microbial interactions with the plant and soils habitats, nutrient mobilization, agricultural waste management, biodegradation, bioremediation, carbon sequestration, land reclamation, plant growth promotion, pathogen suppression, induced systemic resistance, and tolerance against biotic and abiotic stresses. By understanding these processes and developing effective management strategies, we can promote sustainable agriculture and mitigate the negative effects of climate change on soil health and crop productivity.

Weight: 875g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031241802
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023