Microbial Communities of Soils and Soil-like Bodies in Extreme Conditions of East Antarctica

Abstract

Results of an integrated study of microbial communities in soils and soil-like bodies formed in the wet intermountain valleys of East Antarctic oases under moss-, lichen-, algae- or cyanobacteria-dominated associations are summarized. Colonization of soil horizons by microorganisms, microbial biomass, potential biological activity, high viability of soil microorganisms and their resistance to extreme environmental conditions are considered. Perspectives of microbiological studies addressed towards evaluation of the functional role of microorganisms in the formation of Antarctica soils are discussed.