Application of the Biolog™ ECO-plate technique for the study of the physiological profile of microbial communities in agricultural land

Today, there are easy and inexpensive techniques for the study of microbial communities from soils. The present review, on the one hand, shows the historical development of some of the techniques used to analyze the physiological profile of microbial communities and, on the other hand, analyzes the use of Biolog (TM) ECO-plate microplates specifically. The key points of the application of this methodology to soil analysis in agroecosystems are examined. The review of multiple articles focused on the implementation of this methodology shows how the protocol used, both for obtaining data and for its analysis, determines the conclusions that can be derived from the results. It is necessary a good knowledge of the technique for its correct interpretation. Therefore, we consider it necessary to take into account the recommendations made and maintain an optimal and common protocol that facilitates the comparison between studies.