Soil microbiota as game-changers in restoration of degraded lands

Résumé

Soils worldwide have become increasingly degraded by human activities, especially in drylands. Land degradation negatively affects soil hydrological functioning and thereby the ecosystem services that soil provides. Soil microbes may play an important part in the restoration of degraded soils, positively influencing moisture content and other physical features of soil. Coban et al. reviewed recent work on soil hydraulic properties, potential groups of microorganisms for hydrological soil restoration based on their resilience in dry soils, and future strategies for long-term restoration of degraded lands. —AMS