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Soil is essential for ecosystem functionality, serving as a source of nutrients, the basis for root systems, and a habitat for various organisms. It acts as a filter, recycling system, and pollution control mechanism. Soil components include broken-down rock, organic matter, water, and air. Soil formation results from rock weathering and the presence of living organisms. The soil profile consists of layers like the O layer (rich organic matter), A layer (upper soil with plant roots), B layer (less oxygen), and C layer (sand, clay, rock). Soil texture is visualized using a soil texture triangle.
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Soil Importance • Essential to how ecosystems work • Source of nutrients • Basis for root systems • Habitat for millions of plant and micro- and macro-organisms • Acts as filter, recycling system, and pollution control mechanism
Soil Components • Broken down rock • Sand, silt, clay, pebbles, or other rock • Organic matter • Old leaves, dead animals or plants • Water • Air
Soil Formation • Breakdown or weathering of rocks • Caused by the actions of water, wind, or ice 2. Presence of living organisms 3. Decomposition of dead organisms
Soil Profile The O layer – high quality organic matter, with living and dead organisms in different stages of life and decomposition. Usually dark in color due to rich humus layer form the decomposition The A level – also called the upper soil layer and contains plant roots, bacteria, fungi, and other decomposers The B layer – contains less oxygen due to depth below the surface so has fewer roots and living organisms The C level – consist of sand, clay or pebbles and rock. Very little living or dead organic matter. Often Yellow or orange
