Project Structure

The TERRA_MADRE project is divided into 7 work packages:
• In WP1 health status of two soil types from different geographical regions of Serbia will be evaluated via metabarcoding analysis of total microbiota and physical-chemical characterization of soil (thrash metals, minerals, and pesticides).
• In WP2 bacteria and fungi from both soil types will be isolated, identified, and evaluated for plant growth-promoting, biocontrol, and biofortified abilities. In addition, the best weed plant candidates for composting based on the literature data regarding richness in mineral nutrients content and biomass will be selected and chemical analysis of their mineral content performed.
• In WP3 innovative smart compost system based on the selected plant material and other mineralized substrata, and beneficial microorganisms will be developed.
• In WP4 the soil improvers as green manure plant probiotics will be tested on maize seedlings in a protected environment.
• In WP5 effect of soil improvers on the soil health, applied in open fields in maize cropping systems will be tested. Microbiota diversity and physical-chemical characteristics, as well as crop performance will be analyzed.
• In WP6 dissemination of the results to relevant scientific communities and the general public, farmers, and agricultural representatives will be performed.
• In WP7 management, coordination and communication with the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia and writing necessary periodical reports regarding the project will be done.