Soil microorganisms play a vital role in maintaining soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and plant health, particularly in organic farming systems where synthetic inputs are minimized. Understanding the diversity and function of these beneficial microbial communities is essential for enhancing soil productivity and ecological sustainability. This study aimed to identify and characterize beneficial soil microorganisms in organic farms using molecular techniques. Soil samples were collected from organically managed plots with diverse cropping systems and compared with conventionally farmed soils. DNA was extracted and analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of 16S rRNA and ITS gene regions to profile bacterial and fungal communities, respectively. Sequencing results revealed a higher abundance and diversity of beneficial microorganisms—such as Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Bacillus, and Trichoderma species—in organic soils compared to conventional systems. These microbes were strongly associated with improved soil enzymatic activity, nitrogen fixation, and disease suppression. Principal component analysis indicated that organic management practices, including compost application and crop rotation, significantly influenced microbial community structure and function. The findings demonstrate that organic farming supports a rich and functionally active microbial ecosystem that contributes to sustainable soil management and plant productivity. Promoting microbial diversity through organic amendments and reduced chemical inputs can strengthen soil resilience and enhance agricultural sustainability.

beneficial microorganisms; organic farming; soil microbiome; molecular characterization;

biology

Presentation: poster