Fungi as an Essential Part of the Gray-Brown (Chestnut) Soils Zymogenic Microflora

Abstract

This article presents some results of studies of the microbiological status and, particularly, micromycetes of gray-brown (chestnut) soils, semi-humid subtropics of the Lankaran region. Gray-brown (chestnut) soils are characterized by a rich set of microorganisms. The studies covered mainly natural biotopes, rich in organic remains and characterized by established biocenotic relationships. Natural biotope and cultivated agrocenosis under grain were chosen as research objects. The detected fungi (micromycetes) form an essential part of the zymogenic microflora. They are usually heterotrophs and use organic residues rich in digestible nitrogen as food. The studies have established that the detected micromycetes belong to five: Chytridiomycetes, Oomycetes, Zygomycetes, Ascomycetes, and Basidiomycetes. The article provides a brief description of the life activity of each class separately. Optimal temperature and humidity indicators of the development of fungi and other groups of microflora are analyzed. Dominant groups of bacilli have also been identified, which, in combination with micromycetes, perform the functions of decomposition of plant residues and their subsequent humification. Based on laboratory experiments and analysis of literary sources, it was possible to establish the optimal temperature and humidity intervals for the life of spore-forming bacilli and microscopic fungi. In these intervals, participation in the decomposition and humification of organic residues takes place. The results obtained can be used in the biological diagnostics of soils.