What is the breakdown of chemicals by soil microorganisms called?

The breakdown of chemicals by soil microorganisms is known as microbial action. This process involves various types of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, which play a crucial role in decomposing organic materials and converting them into simpler substances. Microbial action typically leads to the transformation of potentially harmful chemicals into less toxic forms, thereby contributing to soil health and nutrient cycling.

This process is vital in the context of pesticide application, as it determines how long pesticides will persist in the environment and their potential effects on soil ecosystems. Understanding microbial action helps applicators manage pesticide use more sustainably and mitigate possible environmental impacts.

Chemical degradation, while related, generally refers to the broader process of breaking down chemicals, not specifically attributed to microorganisms. Photodegradation involves the breakdown of substances through the action of sunlight, and volatility pertains to the physical characteristic of a substance to evaporate or vaporize, neither of which directly describes the microbial process at play in soil.