Ecosystem function, microbial dynamics and human-nature interactions under environmental stress
Abstract
Ecosystems are complex networks where biotic and abiotic components interact across multiple scales, shaping ecosystem functions and services. Soil microbial communities play a central role in regulating nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration and plant productivity, particularly under environmental stressors such as drought, pollution and land-use change. Simultaneously, human activities-from agriculture to urbanization-interact with these ecological processes, influencing resilience and sustainability. This article synthesizes current knowledge on the interplay between microbial dynamics, ecosystem function and human-nature interactions under environmental stress. Emphasis is placed on multiscale mechanisms, including microbial-plant interactions, hydrological feedbacks and social-ecological determinants of resilience. The discussion highlights strategies for integrating microbial ecology and human dimensions to maintain ecosystem services and adaptive capacity under global environmental change.