Insights into the unidentified microbiome: Current approaches and implications

Microorganisms play pivotal role through the functions of their communities in regulating biogeochemical cycles on the Earth since inception. During the early ages of Earth’s evolution, they helped to make the atmosphere oxygenic and suitable for all living beings. Still, they are the silent ecological workers for recycling mineral nutrients and organic compounds that facilitate soil health by improving soil structure and fertility, contribute to plant nutrition and health and maintain ecosystem functions. Evolutionary diversification and succession of microbial communities parallel to the evolution of the Earth made their inhabitation possible in all kinds of habitats including those of extreme environments too. This chapter records the methods used for the identification, characterization and functional interpretation of microbial communities in light of the most advanced developments in instrumentation, methods, protocols and techniques.