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The phylogenetic and functional diversity of the prokaryotic complex with a biotechnological potential (decomposing biopolymers and hydrocarbons; capable of synthesizing secondary metabolites; and involved in nitrogen fixation) in soils and associated ecosystems has been studied. In order to identify the specific features in the development of metabolically active prokaryotes with biotechnological potential, the patterns of their distribution and the dependence of functional activity on the main environmental factors have been established using molecular biological and bioinformatics approaches. The range of the studied samples includes modern soils (Volgograd, Tula, and Moscow oblasts; Siberia; and the northern part of Central Kamchatka), relict habitats (Volgograd oblast and Central Kamchatka), and permafrost soils of the Antarctic (King George Island). The impact of anthropogenic and abiogenic loads on the development of the prokaryotic community is considered. Along with a decrease in the diversity and abundance of prokaryotes, the number of genes marking the ability of community to biodegrade xenobiotics increases in the soils exposed to anthropogenic or abiogenic loads, as well as of the genes coding for nitrogen transformations and the level of metabolism of cofactors and vitamins. The bacterial complex is capable of nitrification at a high oil pollution of soil and its role increases in the lower layers of the soil profile. Archaea play a leading role in the nitrification in undisturbed soils. The observed patterns suggest a high metabolic potential of the prokaryotic component in the examined objects and open up the opportunities for biotechnological use of the strains isolated from relict habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]