Basics of Soil Biology

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Module Overview

Soil can be defined in many ways: a material that infrastructure is built upon, a nation’s territory, the organic layer of the earth or a medium required for plant life. Soil is essentially a combination of weathered geology, water, air and organic matter that contains a range of plant nutrients in mineral and organic form. It is a critical resource that underpins all terrestrial life on our planet. When in a healthy state, soil is teeming with living things and fulfils numerous essential functions. In this module, we discuss the biology that is found within soil and the role these organisms play in cycling nutrients, decomposing organic matter and fertilising soil. The learning outcomes are as follows: - Critically evaluate soil biology testing methods and identify appropriate testing techniques. - Describe the diversity and abundance of soil organisms and their roles in soil health and nutrient cycling. - Understand the diverse interactions between organisms and plants, ranging from mutualistic symbiosis to pathogenic relationships, and their impacts on plant health and productivity. - Compare and contrast the positive and negative ecological roles that organisms can have within soil. - Integrate sustainable practices and identify management practices that encourage beneficial organisms.

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