SOIL HEALTH AND FERTILITY MANAGEMENT: BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS AND MICROBIAL COMMUNITIES : A REVIEW

Abstract

Soil health and fertility form the foundation of sustainable agricultural production, directly influencing crop productivity, nutrient cycling, and ecosystem resilience.This review synthesizes current understanding of soil quality assessment through biochemical indicators, microbial community structure, and the implementation of regenerative agricultural practices. Biochemical parameters such as soil organic carbon, enzyme activities, and nutrient availability are examined as critical metrics for evaluating soil functionality. The role of microbial diversity and community dynamics is discussed in relation to nutrient transformation, disease suppression, and soil structural stability. Regenerative practices including cover cropping, crop rotation, reduced tillage, organic amendments, and integrated livestock systems are analyzed for their capacity to restore degraded soils, enhance nutrient retention, and promote carbon sequestration. Advances in molecular and omics-based tools for studying soil microbiomes are also explored, highlighting their potential to guide targeted soil management interventions. By linking biochemical indicators with microbial ecology and sustainable management strategies, this review emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to maintain and improve soil health, ensuring long-term agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.

Keywords: Soil health, fertility management, biochemical indicators, microbial communities, regenerative agriculture.