Study of the effects of compost on soil and root microbial community

The soil harbours a great variety of organisms belonging to the three domains of life, with microorganisms assuming a pivotal role in organic matter degradation and nutrient cycling. Certain bacteria form symbiotic relationships with plant roots in the rhizosphere and on the rhizoplane and endosphere of the roots, leading to improved plant nutrient uptake, enhanced productivity, and resilience to abiotic stresses and pathogens. However, soil biodiversity is nowadays endangered and reduced by modern agricultural practices, having a severe impact on soil structure and plant productivity. Biofertilizers, substances containing beneficial microorganisms that enhance plant health and growth, offer a potential remedy. Among these, compost, a product of controlled aerobic decomposition of organic materials carried out by microorganisms, stands as a promising solution. Recognized in agriculture for being rich in organic matter and nutrients, compost's unexplored potential as a microbial inoculum for enriching the soil and fostering plant health necessitates further investigation. This thesis work revolves around the study of compost and its role as a source of beneficial microorganisms, aiming to elucidate its capacity to enrich microbial communities in soil and the rhizosphere. Additionally, the study seeks to isolate and characterize the culturable bacterial diversity within compost and assess its ability to promote plant growth. This research contributes to understanding sustainable agricultural practices and soil ecosystem health, aligning with the EU's 2030 sustainable development goals.