Phospholipid Fatty Acid Analysis (PLFA)

Phospholipid Fatty Acid Analysis (PLFA) Soil phospholipid fatty acid analysis can provide a real-time snapshot of the soil microbial community (soil microbiota) structure. The soil microbiota is responsible for many ecosystem functions such as plant growth regulation, nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. Additionally, the microbiota has the ability to degrade environmental pollutants, such as PAHs and PCBs. The microbiota is highly sensitive to soil-altering processes (degradative or beneficial) and changes can guide appropriate management procedures (conservation or restoration).