The Potential of Microalgae–Bacteria Consortia to Restore Degraded Soils

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Beneficial microorganisms, such as microalgae and bacteria, have a strong ability to restore health and fertility in degraded soils. However, the use of these microorganisms interacting in a mixed consortium has yet to be well explored. Furthermore, most of the current knowledge on the effects of these microorganisms on soil fertility derives from studies focused on the potential of either of these groups as biofertilizers; thus, more information on their real impact on degraded soils is required. This mini-review addresses the current knowledge on using a consortium of microalgae and bacteria for this purpose. ABSTRACT: Soil restoration is one of the biggest challenges of this century. Besides the negative impacts of climate change, the current increase in food demands has put severe pressure on soil resources, resulting in a significant area of degraded land worldwide. However, beneficial microorganisms, such as microalgae and plant growth-promoting bacteria, have an outstanding ability to restore soil health and fertility. In this mini-review, we summarize state-of-the-art knowledge on these microorganisms as amendments that are used to restore degraded and contaminated soils. Furthermore, the potential of microbial consortia to maximize beneficial effects on soil health and boost the production of plant-growth-promoting compounds within a mutualistic interaction is discussed.