Metagenomic Analysis of Soil Microbiome Diversity under Organic and Conventional Farming Systems

Abstract

Soil microbiomes play a vital role in maintaining agricultural productivity, soil health, and ecosystem stability. The transition between organic and conventional farming systems significantly influences microbial diversity, nutrient cycling, and soil resilience. This study employs metagenomic analysis to compare soil microbial communities under organic and conventional agricultural practices, focusing on variations in taxonomic composition, functional genes, and ecological interactions. Using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatic analysis, the research identifies differences in bacterial, archaeal, and fungal populations, revealing that organic soils harbor higher microbial diversity and beneficial functional traits associated with nutrient turnover and disease suppression. The findings emphasize that sustainable agricultural practices not only preserve microbial diversity but also enhance long-term soil fertility and environmental balance.