Cytochemical demonstration of catabolism in soil micro-organisms

Electron transport was demonstrated cytochemically in soil micro-organisms. After counterstaining, enzymically active and inactive cells were distinguishable. The number of active micro-organisms detected by this method ranged from ca. 11 — > 46% of the total microscopic count in several soils. The technique was also applied successfully to algae from soil crusts, micro-colonies of microorganisms removed intact from the surface of soil crumbs and to micro-organisms associated with plant roots.