Biological Soil Crust Microorganisms

The biological soil crust microorganisms, comprising bacteria, fungi, archaea, and other microbial taxa, are the core components of biological soil crusts (BSCs) in arid and semi-arid regions. The study goals are to elucidate their community structure, functional metabolism, and ecological adaptation strategies, and to reveal the mechanisms by which these microorganisms drive BSCs to perform critical ecological functions such as soil carbon sequestration, nitrogen cycling, erosion resistance, and ecosystem succession. This research is highly relevant as it not only provides crucial scientific insights into the stability and resilience of arid ecosystems, thereby supporting the development of microbial-based restoration technologies for degraded lands, but also deepens our understanding of microbe-mediated biogeochemical cycles, offering a scientific basis for ecosystem management under global climate change. Moreover, it holds significant practical value in soil conservation and vegetation restoration efforts.