Selected soil enzymes: examples of their potential roles in the ecosystem

Abstract

Soil enzymes regulate ecosystem functioning and in particular play a key role in nutrient cycling. In this review we briefly summarise potential roles of selected enzymes such as amylase, arylsulphatases, -glucosidase, cellulose, chitinase, dehydrogenase, phosphatase, protease and urease in the ecosystem. We also highlight areas where further research is needed to increase our understanding of other possible role(s) of enzymes and factors that may affect their activities in the ecosystem