The impact of fungicides on soil microorganisms

Modern agriculture depends heavily on pesticides, including fungicides. Fungicides such as triazoles, when applied every year, may accumulate in soils leading to the development of resistance to the applied compounds and subsequently to the spread of resistance genes to other fungi. Additionally, fungicides can impact non-target soil microorganisms by reducing their biomass, changing microbial activity, and altering functional and structural diversity of bacterial and fungal communities. Soil quality is closely linked to the microbial activity, therefore, the effects of fungicides on non-target soil microorganisms increase concerns about the fertility of soil. This new knowledge about specific interaction between fungicides and soil microorganisms has to be taken into consideration in designing a new strategy for soil protection.