Asked by Paige Krodel on May 11, 2024
Verified
Explain the ecological significance of each component of soil.
Ecological Significance
The importance of an organism, species, or process in affecting ecosystem structure, function, and services.
Soil Component
The physical, chemical, and biological elements that make up soil, including minerals, organic matter, and living organisms.
- Recognize and elucidate the mechanisms and importance of soil constituents and their development.
Verified Answer
MJ
Michael J HulsteinMay 17, 2024
Final Answer :
Concepts to Consider: Inorganic minerals for anchorages and plant nutrition. Organic matter: Bacteria and fungi-decompose organic matter, thus releasing essential minerals into soil. Earthworms-dig tunnels that aerate soil; deposit castings on surface of soil, thereby bringing nutrients from deeper layers to upper layers. Ants-aerate soil through the construction of tunnels and chambers; bring food, which decays and contributes to organic matter in soil, back to their nests. Soil air provides the oxygen for many processes including aerobic respiration of soil organisms. Water.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize and elucidate the mechanisms and importance of soil constituents and their development.