MICROBIAL ANALYSIS OF SOIL IN A BAMBOO GROOVE AT THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
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Microorganisms in the soil play a crucial role in plant growth, soil sustainability, the balance of the soil ecosystem, and the restoration of lost nutrients. This study was conducted to identify microbial populations at varying depths in the bamboo grove behind the University Health Centre of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected at depths of 0–15 cm, 15-30 cm, and 30–45 cm for microbial analysis. The dilution spread plate method of identification of microbial population was used. The results showed that 7 bacterial species and 5 fungal strains were isolated from all the soil samples used. The probable isolated bacterial species were E coli, Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium septicum, Bacillus, Proteus, Enterobacter, Klebsiella aerogenes, and the isolated fungi species were Aspergillus funmigatus, Alternaria alternate, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium spp, and A niger. The microbial colony-forming units decreased progressively with increasing soil depth, indicating microbial activity is highest within the top 0-30 cm. This suggests that the upper soil layer should remain undisturbed as it contains vital microorganisms essential for nutrient recycling and plant productivity. The morphological characteristics of the isolated bacteria and fungi indicate that the Bacillus spp and the Aspergillus spp are the dominant bacteria in the soil, highlighting their importance in organic matter decomposition and soil fertility enhancement. The study underscores the ecological significance of bamboo groves as a biodiversity hotspot that supports diverse microbial communities crucial for sustainable soil health and management.
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