The International Year of Soils was launched on 5 December 2014, while the World Soil Day was celebrated the same day.
Looking at soil in a microscope, it is possible to see an abundant range of tiny creatures.
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The soil food web is the community of organisms living all or part of their lives in the soil. It describes a complex living system in the soil and how it interacts with the environment, plants, and animals.
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The creatures that live in soil are crucial for the health of the earth. They affect soil structure, soil erosion and water availability. They protect crops from various types of harmful organisms and diseases and keep nutrients near the roots of plants. Lastly, soil in good condition has a very high biological diversity.
Our ability to produce adequate healthy food, and to protect vital air and water resources, depend on how we treat the soil. In short, we all need to protect soil in order to live.
Helping People Understand Soils – Ten Key Messages from National Cooperative Soil Survey.
Have a preview of Know Soil, Know Life presented on K-12 Soil Science Teacher Resources.
Healthy soils are the basis for healthy food production.
