Soil microbiome

The soil microbiome is the community of microorganisms inhabiting the soil, along with their interrelationships. It includes bacteria, fungi, archaea, protozoa, and many other organisms—some beneficial, some neutral, and some pathogenic. Certain communities of microorganisms support nutrient cycling and can suppress some pathogens. However, the impact of the microbiome depends on its composition and activity, not solely on the number of species present.