Stressing the potential application of biochemical processes in soil to environmental biotechnology, this state-of-the-art reference considers the vital role that such biochemical processes have in the environment - emphasizing the activity of micro-organisms in soil. An up-to-date analysis of biological reactions in soil, Volume 8 of "Soil Biochemistry" highlights: traditional as well as molecular and immunlogical techniques for detecting specific micro-organisms in soil; the fate of introduced genetically-modified organisms; the problem of competition by the indigenous microbial populations with the introduced organisms; the use of a white rot fungus, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, for bioremediative purposes in soil; the interaction of xenobiotics, such as pesticides, with soil organisms; generic microbial metabolism and degradation pathways; the inhibition of the nitrification process by allelochemicals released by plants; the microbial mineralization of various compounds under anaerobic conditions, explaining its importance in the global carbon cycle; the formation of soil organic matter, particularly in forest soils; and CPMAS 13C-NMR spectroscopy, a major analytical technique to determine the chemicals or chemical groups involved in the humification process. Presenting a multidisciplinary approach to the field by internationally acclaimed scientists, "Soil Biochemistry, Volume 8" is intended for professionals and students in the fields of soil science; microbiology; biochemistry; environmental science, engineering and technology; biogeochemistry; biotechnology; agronomy; plant pathology; and microbial ecology.