This review discusses the ecological functions and applications of microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in soil aggregation. EPS, composed mainly of polysaccharides, proteins, and DNA, are produced by various microorganisms and play crucial roles in protecting microorganisms from environmental stresses, enhancing soil particle aggregation, and maintaining soil moisture and nutrient retention. The review highlights the diverse functions of EPS, including adhesion, communication, and protection against abiotic and biotic stresses. It also explores the potential of EPS in improving soil structure, fertility, and quality through their ability to aggregate soil particles and enhance nutrient availability. The application of EPS-producing microorganisms and their pure EPS in agricultural soils is discussed, emphasizing their positive effects on soil aggregation and plant growth. The review concludes by summarizing the current knowledge and future prospects of EPS in soil science and agriculture.This review discusses the ecological functions and applications of microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in soil aggregation. EPS, composed mainly of polysaccharides, proteins, and DNA, are produced by various microorganisms and play crucial roles in protecting microorganisms from environmental stresses, enhancing soil particle aggregation, and maintaining soil moisture and nutrient retention. The review highlights the diverse functions of EPS, including adhesion, communication, and protection against abiotic and biotic stresses. It also explores the potential of EPS in improving soil structure, fertility, and quality through their ability to aggregate soil particles and enhance nutrient availability. The application of EPS-producing microorganisms and their pure EPS in agricultural soils is discussed, emphasizing their positive effects on soil aggregation and plant growth. The review concludes by summarizing the current knowledge and future prospects of EPS in soil science and agriculture.