Microbial Community in the Composting Process and Its Positive Impact on the Soil Biota in Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

Conventional agriculture has important challenges to guarantee soil fertility and sustainable food production. Many agricultural soils in the world are degraded and multiple strategies are currently being developed to restore them. The study of beneficial soil microorganisms has attracted increasing interest due to their relevant role in sustainable agricultural development. The balance and maintenance of ecosystem services, such as biomass transformation, nutrient cycling, plant growth, and health, are directly dependent on soil microbial activity. Therefore, it is important to promote its establishment and propagation. An ancient technique that favors soil biodiversity is the production and application of compost. While numerous studies have focused on the benefits of plant cultivation, fewer studies have focused on the benefits for soil microbiota. The objective of this review was to elucidate the role of the microbiota in the composting process and its impact on soil microorganisms in agriculture. The review presents the advances in the knowledge and importance of microorganisms involved in the composting process and how compost promotes the maintenance and multiplication of beneficial microbial consortia and their ecosystem functions in agricultural soils, shifting towards a more sustainable and resilient agriculture.