Russian scientists discover how to assess soil fertility using bacteria.
Researchers from RUDN University have proven that it is the population of bacteria that determines the potential of agricultural land, according to the institution's statement.
Different agricultural techniques - whether traditional, no-till or no-till - change the proportion of microorganisms in the soil. This, in turn, affects the soil's ability to provide plant nutrients.
"We have created a method for identifying genetic characteristics associated with beneficial functions for plants: nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism, and synthesis of phytohormones," said Alexei Vetlin, a researcher at the university's Institute of Ecology.
This bacterial analysis can be used by farmers to accurately assess soil quality before the planting season, the university added.
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