Microorganisms in environment
Fixation of atmospheric nitrogen
Decomposition of organic wastes and residues
Suppression of soil-borne pathogens
Recycling and increased availability of plant nutrients
Degradation of toxicants including pesticides
Production of antibiotics and other bioactive compounds
Production of simple organic molecules for plant uptake
Complexation of heavy metals to limit plant uptake
Production of polysaccharides to improve soil aggregation