Characterization of the Culturable Sporobiota of Spanish Olive Groves and Its Tolerance toward Environmental Challenges
Julia Manetsberger, Natacha Caballero Gómez, Nabil Benomar, Graham Christie, Hikmate Abriouel
Abstract
Microbial communities are a key component of healthy soils. Spore-forming microorganisms represent a large fraction of this community-termed the "sporobiota"-and play a central role in creating a conducive environment for plant growth and food production. In addition, given their unique features, such as extraordinary stability and antimicrobial properties, members of the sporobiota present interesting candidates for biotechnological applications, such as sustainable plant protection products or in a clinical setting. For this, however, more information is needed on the spore-forming community of agricultural installations, ultimately promoting a transition toward a more sustainable agriculture.