Microbial characteristics of soil quality

We all recognize the rich smell of newly plowed earth, and the friable structure and deep color of healthy soil (Figure 1). We can readily contrast that to the off smell and mottled color of a low quality soil. Descriptive properties such as color, smell, and feel can easily distinguish different soils, but they may not identify subtle changes that occur in soil as a result of various management practices. Soil quality is an emerging concept that can integrate descriptive and analytical measurements of the physical, chemical, and biological components of the soil. Minor differences in these components may be early warning signals of soil degradation and can be used as indicators so that degrading effects can be remedied and soil building practices can be implemented. Analytical techniques are therefore needed to more fully differentiate soil building practices from those that are degrading. Soil microbial parameters, an integral part of soil, may be helpful as early warning signals of changes in soil quality. Soil quality Soil quality has been defined as ‘the capacity of a soil to function …