INTRODUCTION
Soil microorganisms are considered sensitive indicators
of soil health and quality, plant productivity,
and ecosystem sustainability (Doran et al., 1994). Soil
microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes, algae,
and protozoa, are indispensable to the biosphere
because of their key role in soil biochemical processes,
including organic matter decomposition, nutrient cycling,
soil degradation, and bioremediation of soil pollution.
The study of soil microbial properties, such as
biomass, activity, and diversity, is important in furthering
knowledge on the factors contributing to soil
health and quality (Hill et al., 2000).