LAUSR

Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on the planet, and can reach 10 viral particles per gram of soil. Viruses affect the composition of microbial communities, mediate soil biogeochemical cycles, regulate soil microbial evolution, and threaten the health of plants and animals, including humans. However, there is limited knowledge on the abundance and distribution patterns of viruses and the manner in which they affect ecological processes. This study focuses on the comparative approaches to study soil viruses, including their extraction, purification, quantification, and methods pertaining to molecular ecology. The development of reliable and highly efficient methods to evaluate soil viral particles is desirable, because it aids the study of soil virus diversity and distribution. Therefore, these methods will improve our understanding of viral propagation mechanisms in soils, and will provide information on how to control viruses to ensure adequate public health and safety.