Soil Microbial Ecology
Soil is a living material, containing tens of thousands of different species of bacteria and fungi. The activity, diversity and interaction of the microflora is key to maintaining healthy, productive soil for plant production.
Bioscience is a leading research in understanding how the population of soil microbes influences soil health. We have over 20 years research experience in the complex and dynamic interplay between soil organic carbon, bacteria and fungi, and the interaction with plant roots.
The technology we use is at the forefront of science. Although we use traditional plate and cultures and microscope methods, increasingly the focus is on DNA-based technology. Bioscience has a complete molecular biology laboratory, and is the only private company in Australia to have invested in “next Generation” DNA sequencing systems.
Our main research focus is understanding how to direct the ecology of soils towards greater production efficiency, including enhanced carbon sequestration potential. Our programs involve pot trails, small scale field trial and large scale on-farm trials.