Native Colombian Biocrust-Forming Cyanobacteria In Vitro Effects in Microbial Density for Soil Restoration

Soil is a fundamental resource for humankind’s sustenance; however, excessive or inadequate use contributes to its degradation and erosion, therefore limiting its health and capacity to sustain biological activity. An option for restoration is the use of biocrusts—formations of photosynthetic organisms that protect and stimulate soil. The present research aimed to determine whether changes in soil conditions occur when treated with cyanobacterial biocrusts, specifically examining differences in microbial counts. Our results show significant changes in soil humidity, indicating an improvement in water retention. We also found that all microbial counts increased in the treatment group, but this increase was not statistically significant; additionally, there were no changes in the total organic carbon content. These results could be linked to low production of exopolysaccharides by the used species, low photosynthetic activity, and the need for a longer evaluation period for biocrust treatment.