Functioning of cyanobacteria in soil ecosystems

The data of long-term studies pertinent to functioning of cyanobacteria and their effects on soil fertility during periods of soil “blossoming” over more than 50% of the soil surface are presented. Parameters of and participants in this process and its features typical for the temperate zone are discussed. Using modern methods of investigations (field ¹⁵N₂ and ¹³CO₂ chambers, spectral-isotope and gas chromatographic analyses), cyanobacteria were revealed to produce 725 kg/ha. They are characterized by intense photosynthesis inherent to mosses and lichens. The conditions of cyanobacteria functioning in plowed soils are discussed. Their contribution to the nitrogen pool of soils reaches 30 kg/ha. Based on the model experiments, a concept of transforming the organic matter of cyanobacteria in soil and its movement along trophic chains of the biological cycle has been developed.