Role of Soil Enzymes in Agroecosystem

Abstract

Soil enzymes play a vital role in nutrient cycling in agroecosystem. Soil enzymes are the mediators and catalysts of important soil functions that include- decomposition of organic inputs, transformation of native soil organic matter, release of inorganic nutrients for plant growth, N₂ fixation and denitrification. Soil micro-organisms, plant roots and animals are the primary source of soil enzymes. Hence, we briefly summarize the potential roles of selected soil enzymes such as urease, β-glucosidase, cellulase, dehydrogenase, phosphatase and protease in the agroecosystem.