Foreword

I am indeed very happy that this book on the scientific and industrial aspects of soil microbes is coming up. Since the discovery of microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, mycorrhiza, etc., and their association with plants, scientists have been attracted to the microbial association with plants and their role in the ecosystem. Studies on plant-associated soil microbes and their use in the industry have been a fascinating area of research for the last two decades and also play a crucial role in plant growth and development, such as nutrient cycling, crop productivity, and nitrogen fixation. Nowadays, scientists and industries are exploring the use of microbes in the fields of agricultural and industrial production of secondary metabolites from these beneficial microorganisms. Several bio-products are available on the market, and many more are likely to come in the future.

This book, entitled “Industrial Applications of Soil Microbes”, Volume I, is a praiseworthy step towards popularizing the industrial applications of microbes inhabiting the soil environment. This volume contains fifteen contributed articles on various aspects of soil microbes, their industrial utility, and their role in improving soil quality and yield. The various chapters of the present book have been written by reputed scientists in the microbiology field. It will provide the most recent information on the uses of microorganisms and their applications in industry and agriculture in one place.

The authors have covered most of the interesting topics, like preliminary information about soil microbes to highly advanced technologies like degradation of inorganic wastes, bioremediation, nutrient transformation, and the role of nanotechnology in agriculture. Some information about IPR, its rules, and regulations is also discussed. The latest references used by the authors will also provide the most recent developments in the industrial/agricultural uses of soil microbes.

I do not doubt that this book will be a significant scientific contribution and a source of inspiration to students and scientists who are trying to understand the mechanism of interaction of microbes with soil as well as their industrial applications.