Soil methane dynamics: Microbial mechanisms and agricultural management strategies

Importance of the work: Soil methane (CH4) dynamics remain poorly addressed in terms of microbial interactions and integrated mitigation strategies under agricultural management. Objectives: To review soil microbial mechanisms of CH4 production/consumption and to evaluate how management strategies influence CH4 emissions. Materials and Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using scientific databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar) and tools such as Connected Papers. Studies were synthesized on methanogenic/methanotrophic microorganisms, biofertilizer applications and management interventions (such as water and fertilizer regimes) across agroecosystems. Results: CH4 production in soil is driven by anaerobic methanogenic archaea, while aerobic methanotrophic bacteria consume CH4. This balance is strongly regulated by environmental factors, such as soil moisture, redox potential and substrate availability. Alternate wetting and drying practices have reduced CH4 emissions by 30–70%, while ammonium-based fertilizers may suppress methanotrophy. Inoculation with methanotrophs and co-inoculation with plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial strains have produced emission reductions up to 68%. In addition, Azolla-cyanobacteria systems decrease emissions by increasing soil redox potential and O2 availability. However, interactions among practices (such as fertilization × water regime) are complex and many single-factor interventions fail under field conditions. It is essential for consistent mitigation outcomes to maintain microbial diversity and to understand these synergistic/antagonistic effects. Main finding: Integrated, site-specific strategies, combining microbial agents with optimized water and fertilizer management, enhance CH4 oxidation and suppress production. Holistic, microbiome-informed interventions are critical for effective and sustainable greenhouse gas mitigation in agriculture.