Micro-worlds Beneath Our Feet – How Soil Supports Biodiversity?
Micro-worlds Beneath Our Feet – How Soil Supports Biodiversity?
The Invisible Ecosystem Beneath Our Feet
Soil is one of the most important, yet most underrated layers of our planet. Although for many people it appears to be just dirt, in reality, it harbors a complex ecosystem without which life on Earth could not exist. Millions of microorganisms, insects, and other small creatures continuously work to maintain its health and fertility, thus supporting the growth of plants, trees, and entire ecosystems.
Soil is also a natural filter that purifies water, and its structure helps retain moisture. This is important not only for plants but also for humans, as healthy soil protects against floods and droughts. Every ecosystem depends on soil, which is why its degradation leads to biodiversity loss and environmental issues. In this article, we will take a closer look at what lies beneath our feet and why it is worth protecting.
Soil Composition – Who Lives There?
Microorganisms – The Tiny Heroes of Large Ecosystems
Soil is home to billions of microorganisms that play a key role in nutrient cycling and plant growth:
- Bacteria – Responsible for processes such as nitrogen fixation and the decomposition of organic matter, which directly contribute to soil fertility. Their presence is crucial for the proper development of plants and for reducing soil-borne diseases. Bacteria can also neutralize pollutants, improving soil and water quality.
- Fungi and Mycorrhizal Networks – Support plants by transporting water and minerals while also protecting them from diseases. Mycorrhiza is an extremely important component of forest ecosystems, as it enables nutrient exchange between trees. Some fungal species also aid in the decomposition of dead organic matter, enriching the soil with nutrients.
- Protists and Nematodes – Although often unnoticed, they help regulate populations of other soil organisms. Protists support organic matter digestion processes, while some of them combat harmful bacteria and fungi, ensuring balance in the soil ecosystem.
Larger Soil Inhabitants – Ecosystem Engineers
Not only microorganisms live in the soil. We can also find:
- Earthworms – Improve soil structure, aerate it, and assist in organic matter decomposition. Their tunnels facilitate the penetration of water and air into deeper soil layers, which supports plant growth. The impact of earthworms on soil is so significant that they are sometimes called “ecosystem engineers.”
- Springtails and Mites – Play a crucial role in decomposition and nutrient cycling. Springtails feed on dead organic matter and microorganisms, helping maintain soil fertility and a rich nutrient content.
- Moles and Ants – Although often considered pests, their activity helps mix soil layers and improve its structure. Moles dig underground tunnels that enhance soil aeration, while ants transport seeds and contribute to plant dispersal.
How Does Soil Support the Growth of Plants and Trees?
Soil is not only a foundation for plants but also a key component of the ecosystem that affects their health, growth, and resistance to environmental changes. Minerals, microorganisms, structure, and water retention capacity are the main factors determining its quality and influence on vegetation.
Soil’s Ability to Store Water and Nutrients
One of the most important functions of soil is its ability to store and provide water and nutrients to plants. Soils rich in humus retain water better, which is crucial during droughts. The structure of the soil determines its retention properties – clay soils store more water than sandy ones but can also cause drainage problems.
Microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi play a significant role in the absorption of minerals. They make nutrients more accessible to plant roots, promoting proper growth. Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and nitrogen are essential elements for healthy plant development, and their availability depends on the mineral composition of the soil and the biological activity of microorganisms.
The Role of Mycorrhizal Networks in Communication and Plant Protection
Mycorrhizal fungi are an incredibly important part of the underground world of plants. They form symbiotic connections with roots, helping plants absorb nutrients and water. Thanks to mycorrhiza, plants gain better access to phosphorus, which is crucial for their growth, as well as other microelements they cannot absorb on their own.
Moreover, mycorrhizal networks enable plants to “communicate.” Trees can warn each other about threats such as pest attacks or environmental changes, increasing their chances of survival. Through this underground network, plants can also transfer nutrients to each other, which is a key mechanism supporting the development of young saplings.
Soil Structure and Its Impact on Root Development
Soil structure is essential for the proper growth of plant root systems. Proper aeration and porosity allow roots to develop freely, increasing their ability to absorb water and minerals. Compacted or polluted soils can hinder root penetration, weakening plants and stunting their growth.
To improve soil structure, organic materials such as compost, peat, or plant mulch should be used. Regular application of natural fertilizers also helps rebuild soil structure and enhances its ability to support plant growth.
The Importance of Soil Organisms for Plant Growth
Earthworms, nematodes, and other microorganisms contribute to soil development and its ability to support plant life. They burrow through the soil, mixing its layers and increasing aeration. Earthworms, in particular, improve soil water retention and facilitate plant access to nutrients by decomposing organic matter.
A diverse soil life ensures greater ecosystem resilience to climate changes and pollution. Therefore, it is important to support its natural processes by using environmentally friendly methods, such as reducing pesticide use and protecting habitats of microorganisms and beneficial insects.
Thanks to all these mechanisms, soil not only provides plants with nutrients but also actively protects and supports their development on many levels.
How Human Activities Destroy Soil Life – and How to Restore It?
Soil, as a living ecosystem, is highly vulnerable to human activity. Modern agricultural, industrial, and urban development practices have a profound impact on its structure and its ability to sustain life. Understanding these threats and taking steps to restore soil health is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
Threats Caused by Human Activities
Intensive Agriculture and Pesticide Use
Modern farming techniques, while improving yields, often contribute to soil degradation. The extensive use of chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers kills beneficial microorganisms, reducing soil fertility. Monoculture farming further depletes essential nutrients, necessitating even more chemical input, creating a harmful cycle that diminishes soil quality over time.
Urbanization and Soil Sealing
The expansion of cities, roads, and infrastructure leads to widespread soil sealing – covering soil with impermeable surfaces such as asphalt and concrete. This prevents water infiltration, increasing the risk of flooding while reducing groundwater recharge. Urbanization also leads to the destruction of natural soil ecosystems, limiting the presence of beneficial organisms and disrupting ecological balance.
Deforestation and Soil Erosion
The removal of forests leaves soil exposed to the elements, making it more susceptible to erosion by wind and water. Without the protective cover of vegetation, soil loses its ability to retain nutrients, leading to desertification and reduced agricultural productivity. The loss of tree roots also affects soil stability, increasing landslide risks in hilly areas.
Industrial Pollution and Heavy Metal Contamination
Industrial activities, including mining, waste disposal, and chemical manufacturing, release pollutants such as heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and microplastics into the soil. These substances disrupt microbial communities, poison plant roots, and accumulate in food chains, posing health risks to humans and animals alike.
Strategies for Restoring Soil Health
Implementing Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture focuses on soil restoration through sustainable practices such as crop rotation, minimal tillage, and the use of organic fertilizers. These methods improve soil structure, enhance its ability to retain water, and promote biodiversity by fostering beneficial microorganisms.
Protecting and Replanting Vegetation
Reforestation and afforestation projects help to stabilize soil and improve its biological diversity. Planting cover crops, native grasses, and wildflower meadows can prevent erosion, enhance moisture retention, and restore organic matter to the soil.
Reducing Chemical Use in Agriculture
Adopting organic farming practices, composting, and using natural pest control methods can reduce reliance on harmful chemicals. Encouraging the use of biological solutions such as mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria can improve soil health naturally.
Sustainable Urban Planning
Green infrastructure, including urban gardens, green roofs, and permeable pavements, can help mitigate the negative impact of urbanization on soil. Designing cities with green spaces allows for better water infiltration, supports biodiversity, and reduces heat island effects.
Public Awareness and Education
Educating communities about the importance of soil conservation can drive collective action. Encouraging sustainable consumer choices, promoting responsible waste management, and supporting soil restoration initiatives can all contribute to global soil health improvement.
The future of our ecosystems depends on how we treat the soil. Protecting and restoring soil is not only an environmental concern but also a matter of public health and long-term sustainability for future generations.
Why Should We Care About Soil?
Soil is one of the most valuable natural resources on our planet. Its health affects air and water quality, as well as the lives of plants and animals. Unfortunately, human activities significantly contribute to its degradation, leading to biodiversity loss, desertification, and water retention problems. That is why it is so important to take action to protect and restore soil.
Healthy soil is the foundation of agriculture and food security. It supports plant growth by providing essential nutrients and enabling proper rooting. Appropriate practices such as regenerative farming, composting, and reducing chemical use can significantly improve soil condition and contribute to its long-term fertility.
Soil protection is also a climate action. Healthy soil is a key carbon sink, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Supporting natural soil processes can mitigate the negative effects of climate change and restore ecosystems.
Each of us can contribute to soil protection – from choosing eco-friendly food products to creating environmentally friendly gardens and educating others about its importance. Understanding the role of soil and its protection is key to a sustainable future for future generations.
