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Bacterial communities in desert ecosystems have a pronounced stratified structure, which is expressed as irregular distribution of bacterial density and a change in taxonomic composition along the vertical from green leaves to soil. The maximal density of bacteria is typical of dry plant debris, while the minimum is typical for mineral soil horizons. Representatives of the genera Arthrobacter and Streptomyces predominate in gray-brown desert soil, myxobacteria are abundant on dry plant residues, and pigmented coryneform bacteria prevail on living plants. The desert bacterial communities are characterized by an unusually large share of bacteria belonging to the actinomycete line and specific bacterial forms resistant to unfavorable conditions.