Molecular and genomic approaches to the study of soil biodiversity

This book shows that microbial diversity and the environment are continuums of interrelated concepts where the emergence of novel entities and relationships are defined by selection and adaptation at the molecular level. The potency of molecular creativity is embedded in the structure and function of nucleic acids, but protein molecules that have the capacity to sense and respond to environmental change and ecological stimuli mediate its actualization. In turn, fatty acids and other structural molecules accomplish the ecological sustainable strategies for organism survival and competition. The basis of molecular analysis are to provide meaningful information on the diversity of microorganisms at a finer scale than would be possible through investigation of morphological characteristics. This book is an addendum to Igboji (2015) where other methods of assessing soil enzyme, humic acid and microbial activities were described. Complimentary and supplementary approaches are required in assaying biodiversity. Depending on the part of the world, resources available, skill and knowledge these methods are the hallmark of science in environmental sciences.