Soil microorganisms as bioindicators of agroecosystem condition: a review of their ecological and trophic groups, functional roles, and the impact of anthropogenic factors

Soil is the foundation of agroecosystems. It is a physical surface where plants can grow. But it is also a living resource that provides services to the environment and helps to keep the Earth's natural cycles working. The soil microbiome is a highly diverse community of organisms that include bacteria (70–90% of the total mass), as well as fungi, archaea, protozoa, and algae. These organisms work together to break down organic matter, recycle nutrients, and fight off diseases to keep the soil healthy. Ecological-trophic groups show what soil is like, based on how it is made, what nutrients are available, how much air is in it, and how much humans have disturbed it. Their ratio and activity are a direct response to these conditions. It is impossible to assess the state of soil agroecosystems without a deep understanding of the role of the main ecological groups of microorganisms. The number, activity, and ratio of different types of microorganisms can be used to indicate changes in soil processes. The aim of this review is to summarise the role and impact of factors on ecological-trophic groups as bioindicators of the condition of soil agroecosystems.