- 1. Soil microbiology is the study of microorganisms that live in soil and the processes they are involved in. These microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, and archaea, all of which play crucial roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and maintenance of soil structure. Soil microbiology also investigates how these microorganisms interact with plants to form symbiotic relationships, influencing plant health and growth. Understanding soil microbiology is essential for sustainable agriculture practices, environmental conservation, and overall soil health.
Which of the following is an example of a soil microorganism?
A) Butterfly
B) Earthworm
C) Caterpillar
D) Bacteria
- 2. What is the function of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in soil microbiology?
A) Increase soil salinity
B) Break down organic matter
C) Prevent soil erosion
D) Convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form
- 3. What is the primary source of energy for most soil microorganisms?
A) Sunlight
B) Organic matter
C) Water
D) Carbon dioxide
- 4. What is the significance of soil microbiology in agriculture?
A) Promotes soil erosion
B) Enhances soil fertility and nutrient availability
C) Increases pest infestation
D) Decreases soil compaction
- 5. Which soil microorganism contributes to the decomposition of organic matter?
A) Nematodes
B) Algae
C) Fungi
D) Snails
- 6. What role do actinomycetes play in soil microbiology?
A) Produce antibiotics
B) Fix nitrogen
C) Contribute to soil erosion
D) Synthesize carbohydrates
- 7. What is the significance of soil microbiology in bioremediation?
A) Increases soil compaction
B) Reduces soil aeration
C) Promotes soil salinization
D) Helps degrade pollutants and contaminants
- 8. How does soil microbiology affect plant health?
A) Increases susceptibility to pests
B) Reduces water availability
C) Promotes wilting
D) Improves nutrient uptake and disease resistance
- 9. What role do earthworms play in soil microbiology?
A) Improve soil structure and nutrient cycling
B) Promote soil erosion
C) Decrease soil aeration
D) Increase soil compaction
- 10. Which process is NOT associated with soil microbiology?
A) Nitrogen fixation
B) Decomposition
C) Photosynthesis
D) Denitrification
- 11. What is the term used to describe the symbiotic relationship between plant roots and beneficial fungi?
A) Rhizome
B) Lichen
C) Endophyte
D) Mycorrhiza
- 12. Which of the following is a common method to measure microbial biomass in soil?
A) Mass spectrometry
B) UV-Visible Spectroscopy
C) Phospholipid fatty acid analysis
D) Gas chromatography
- 13. Which of the following factors can promote microbial diversity in soils?
A) Extreme pH
B) Lack of oxygen
C) High salinity
D) Presence of diverse plant species
- 14. Which process involves the conversion of nitrate (NO3-) to nitrogen gas (N2) by denitrifying bacteria?
A) Denitrification
B) Ammonification
C) Nitrification
D) Nitrogen fixation
- 15. What is the term for the process by which plants release organic compounds through their roots to attract beneficial soil microbes?
A) Respiration
B) Rhizodeposition
C) Decomposition
D) Photosynthesis
- 16. Which process involves the conversion of ammonia (NH3) to nitrate (NO3-) by nitrifying bacteria?
A) Nitrification
B) Mineralization
C) Denitrification
D) Assimilation
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