The Potential of Microalgae–Bacteria Consortia to Restore Degraded Soils
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The Bashan Institute of Science, 1730 Post Oak Ct, Auburn, AL 36830, USA
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Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Auburn University, 209 Life Sciences Building, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
3
Environmental Microbiology Group, Northwestern Center for Biological Research (CIBNOR), Avenida IPN 195, La Paz 23096, Mexico
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Biology 2023, 12(5), 693; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology12050693
Submission received: 28 February 2023
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Revised: 2 May 2023
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Accepted: 4 May 2023
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Published: 9 May 2023
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Environmental Biotechnology (AEB))
Simple Summary
Beneficial microorganisms, such as microalgae and bacteria, have a strong ability to restore health and fertility in degraded soils. However, the use of these microorganisms interacting in a mixed consortium has yet to be well explored. Furthermore, most of the current knowledge on the effects of these microorganisms on soil fertility derives from studies focused on the potential of either of these groups as biofertilizers; thus, more information on their real impact on degraded soils is required. This mini-review addresses the current knowledge on using a consortium of microalgae and bacteria for this purpose.
Abstract
Soil restoration is one of the biggest challenges of this century. Besides the negative impacts of climate change, the current increase in food demands has put severe pressure on soil resources, resulting in a significant area of degraded land worldwide. However, beneficial microorganisms, such as microalgae and plant growth-promoting bacteria, have an outstanding ability to restore soil health and fertility. In this mini-review, we summarize state-of-the-art knowledge on these microorganisms as amendments that are used to restore degraded and contaminated soils. Furthermore, the potential of microbial consortia to maximize beneficial effects on soil health and boost the production of plant-growth-promoting compounds within a mutualistic interaction is discussed.
