Soil biology

Soil biology is the study of microbial and faunal activity and ecology in soil. Soil life, soil biota, soil fauna, or edaphon is a collective term that encompasses all the organisms that spend a significant portion of their life cycle within a soil profile, or at the soil-litter interface. These organisms include earthworms, nematodes, protozoa, fungi, bacteria, different arthropods, as well as some reptiles (such as snakes), and species of burrowing mammals like moles, gophers and voles. Soil biology plays a vital role in determining many soil characteristics. The decomposition of organic material by soil organisms has an immense influence on soil fertility, plant growth, soil structure, and carbon storage. As a relatively new science, much remains unknown about soil biology and its effect on soil ecosystems.

Soil Organisms

The soil is home to a large proportion of the world's biodiversity. The relationship between soil organisms, their environment, and their survival is complex and still poorly understood. Soil organisms break down organic material, making nutrients available for uptake by plants and other organisms. The nutrients stored in the bodies of soil organisms prevent nutrient loss by leaching. Microorganisms play a vital role in soil formation and the preservation of soil health.

Soil Microorganisms

Soil microorganisms, which include fungi and bacteria, act as decomposers that consume organic material and then recycle it into inorganic forms, which plants and other microbes can use. This function is critical for the survival of most plants, which reside in soils that are otherwise deficient in nutrients.

Soil Fauna

Soil fauna, such as earthworms, ants, beetles, mites, and grubs, play a crucial role in maintaining soil health. They help to break down organic material, improving soil structure and fertility. They also aid in the dispersal of microorganisms and nutrients.

Soil and the Carbon Cycle

Soil plays a key role in the carbon cycle by storing carbon and reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Soil organisms contribute to this process by breaking down organic material, which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, and by storing carbon in their bodies, which can then be stored in the soil.

See Also

• Soil Science
• Soil Fertility
• Soil Microbiology
• Soil Fauna
• Soil Carbon

References

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