PLFA Soil Biology Tool

PLFA (Phospholipid Fatty Acid) analysis measures the living microbial community in soil by identifying specific fatty acids found in microbial cell membranes.

It provides a snapshot of:

• Total microbial biomass

• Microbial community structure

• Relative abundance of key groups (bacteria, fungi, etc.)

PLFA helps you understand:

• Soil biological activity

• Diversity and balance of microbes

• Soil ecosystem function and resilience

Unlike standard tests, PLFA focuses strictly on the living biology, not nutrients.

Beneficial fungi are soil fungi that form positive relationships with plants and the soil system, helping improve nutrient uptake, soil structure, and overall plant health.

In simple terms:

Beneficial fungi are the “underground partners” that help plants grow stronger while improving the soil.

Key types of beneficial fungi:

1. Mycorrhizal fungi (most important)

• Attach to plant roots and extend into the soil

• Help plants access water and nutrients (especially phosphorus)

• Trade nutrients for plant sugars

👉 Think of them as a root extension system

2. Saprophytic fungi

• Break down crop residue and organic matter

• Help recycle nutrients back into the soil

• Build stable soil carbon

👉 They are the decomposers

Soil bacteria are important because they rapidly break down organic material and release nutrients into forms plants can use, keeping the soil system active and productive.

The fungi:bacteria (F:B) ratio is important because it shows the balance of microbial communities in soil, which influences how nutrients cycle, how well soil holds structure, and how resilient the system is to stress.

You can submit samples through our trusted partner:
REGEN Ag Lab