Characterization of soil samples by enzyme activity

Abstract

The presence of extracellular enzymes in soils offers a very sensitive method for matching, or distinguishing between, soil samples. Simple colorimetric methods were used to compare enzyme levels in soils from different sites. It was found that each soil tested had its own spectrum of enzyme activity, by which it could be characterized and thereby distinguished from other soils that were essentially similar in physical composition. This article describes nine simple enzyme assays used by sixth-form students for ‘soilprinting’, and draws attention to some possible applications of the technique in forensic science and in studies of soil fertility.