The Ability of Vermicompost to Mitigate the Impacts of Salinity Stress on Soil Microbial Community: A Review

Abstract

Soil salinity is a major challenge in many developing countries, affecting soil fertility and crop productivity. Salinity directly affects the soil microbiome through osmotic pressure and ion toxicity, resulting in diminished microbial biomass and activity. Additionally, indirect repercussions involve reduced organic carbon inputs and aggregate stability, reducing microbial diversity and functions. Salinity induces a microbial community shift toward the abundance of halotolerant and halophile microorganisms. The use of organic amendments is a promising approach. Indeed, the application of vermicompost, with its rich nutrient and organic matter content, proves effective in counteracting the impact of salinity on the soil microbiome by providing available nutrients, decreasing the plasmolysis of cells by reducing the Na+/K+and Na+/Ca2+ratios, improving the soil texture, increasing the microbial diversity, and shifting the soil microbiome toward the abundance of beneficial soil microbiota. Despite these positive effects, carefully considering the initial EC of both soil and vermicompost and the applied quantity is crucial to ensuring maximum benefits. Overall, vermicompost holds considerable potential as a sustainable management strategy to mitigate the impact of salinity on soil microbiome, promoting overall soil health and enhancing crop production.