microbial communities

Metagenomic assembled dataset of potentially polyethylene terephthalate-degrading microcosms enriched from seawater, cow dung, and landfill soil

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Scientists have created a database of 99 microbial genomes collected from seawater, cow manure, and landfill soil that can potentially break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the plastic used in bottles and clothing. These microorganisms were grown in laboratory experiments for 180 days using PET as their only food source. The research provides valuable information about which bacteria and archaea might help solve plastic pollution problems through natural biodegradation.

Editorial: Effects of microplastics on soil ecosystems

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Tiny plastic particles called microplastics are accumulating in soil worldwide and causing problems for the microorganisms that keep soil healthy. This editorial reviews research showing that while newer biodegradable plastic mulches used in farming are better than traditional plastics, both types can weaken the complex networks of beneficial soil microbes. Scientists found bacteria that can break down some plastic chemicals, but long-term solutions require better monitoring and ways to manage plastic residues in agricultural soils.

Microbial Degradation of Chromium-Tanned Leather During Thermophilic Composting: A Multi-Scale Analysis of Microbial Communities and Structural Disruption

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This study investigated how naturally occurring microorganisms can break down chromium-tanned leather waste through controlled composting at high temperatures. Researchers found that thermophilic composting successfully fragmented leather and selected specialized bacteria and fungi capable of surviving in chromium-rich environments. These microorganisms formed protective biofilms on leather surfaces, suggesting potential strategies for safer disposal of leather waste from the footwear and tannery industries.

Advancements in biopile-based sustainable soil remediation: a decade of improvements, integrating bioremediation technologies and AI-based innovative tools

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This review examines how biopile technology, which uses naturally occurring microorganisms to break down soil pollutants, has improved over the past decade. By optimizing conditions like moisture, temperature, and oxygen levels, and combining biopiles with sustainable materials like biochar and biosurfactants, scientists can effectively remove contaminants from soil while supporting carbon storage and ecosystem recovery. The approach offers an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional chemical remediation methods.

Necromass of Diverse Root-Associated Fungi Suppresses Decomposition of Native Soil Carbon via Impacts of Their Traits

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When fungi die in soil, their dead remains (necromass) affect how quickly the rest of the soil carbon breaks down. This study found that fungi with dark pigments and certain chemical compositions can actually slow down the decomposition of native soil carbon, helping more carbon stay stored in the soil longer. The researchers identified specific fungal traits like melanin content and growth rates that determine whether fungal remains promote or suppress carbon loss from soil.

Insights into Physicochemical Characteristics, Flavor Development, and Microbial Succession During the Natural Fermentation of Sichuan-Style Black Soybean Soy Sauce

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This research reveals how Sichuan-style black soybean soy sauce develops its distinctive complex flavor over six months of natural fermentation. The study tracked changes in taste and aroma compounds, identifying key flavor contributors like methional (sauce-like) and 1-octen-3-ol (mushroom-like). Different microorganisms dominate at different fermentation stages, with early-stage fungi breaking down proteins and later-stage bacteria and yeasts creating aromatic compounds. The findings provide insights for improving traditional soy sauce production methods.

Contrasting stability of fungal and bacterial communities during long-term decomposition of fungal necromass in Arctic tundra

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Scientists studied how dead fungal material breaks down in Arctic soil over three years. They found that melanized fungi, especially Pseudogymnoascus, are key decomposers that help break down tough fungal material containing melanin. While bacterial diversity increased over time, the fungal community remained relatively stable. Even after three years, about 20% of the fungal material remained undecomposed, suggesting it can help store carbon in Arctic soils.

Systematically exploring and evaluating core fungal composition and their flavor profile in fermented grains of Jiang-flavor baijiu

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Baijiu is a traditional Chinese alcohol made through complex fermentation involving many microorganisms. This study identified four key fungal groups that are most important for creating the desired flavors. When certain fungi were grown together with yeast, they produced higher amounts of desirable flavor compounds like esters and alcohols. These findings help scientists understand how to improve baijiu quality and consistency by using controlled combinations of microorganisms.

Effects of food waste mulch on the physicochemical quality and fungal community diversities of desert soil in Southeast Iran

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Researchers tested whether mulch made from food waste could improve desert soil in Iran. They mixed food waste with clay and water, then spread it on desert plots over five months. The mulch significantly increased organic matter and beneficial fungi in the soil, helping to stabilize the desert sand and potentially reduce both food waste and soil erosion. This approach could provide a sustainable solution for desert regions worldwide.

Ancient Microbiomes as Mirrored by DNA Extracted From Century-Old Herbarium Plants and Associated Soil

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Scientists extracted and analyzed ancient DNA from plant roots and soil samples stored in herbarium collections for over 120 years. The DNA showed typical signs of age and preserved microbial communities that originally lived in the soil around these plants. By comparing these ancient microbial communities to modern ones, researchers found that herbarium storage preserved the original characteristics of soil microbiomes, making these museum specimens valuable for studying how farming practices have changed soil ecosystems over time.

Research Keyword: microbial communities