Ekosystem gleby

Soil, often called the skin of Earth, is more than just dirt. It is a complex ecosystem that includes abiotic factors such as inorganic minerals, air, and water. It also contains many biotic factors, such as bacteria, fungi, and other organisms.

The inorganic minerals constitute 40 to 45% of soil volume and enrich the ecosystem with nutrients such as nitrates, phosphates, and potassium.

Air and water together account for 50 to 55% of soil volume. Air enriches the soil with gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. Whereas water helps nutrients to penetrate the soil.

The organisms that comprise 5 to 10% of the soil volume interact with each other and with abiotic factors for nutrition. 

Soil is composed of distinct horizons, or layers. The topsoil, or O-region, is the most important for plant growth as it is rich in humus—organic material formed by microbial decomposition of dead plant and animal matter. Humus enriches soil with nutrients, improves moisture and air retention, and attracts organisms such as earthworms, leading to a soft and porous soil texture.

The texture and composition of the topsoil make it an ideal substrate for seed germination and plant growth. Healt