Suspended soil may provide novel microhabitats

The threat to insects and other small creatures from rainforest clearance and the consequences for the environment in tropical regions are recognised. What has not been studied so far is whether, and how, the oil palm plantations are able to sustain the populations of tiny below-ground animals that work to keep the soil healthy.

In a new study led by the University of Göttingen, scientists have discovered high levels of biological activity in regions above ground level that may serve as oases for soil organisms. They identified that the suspended soil in the gaps where the frond grows out of the palm trunk may in fact provide novel microhabitats where soil creatures can thrive.

[Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/03/200302103754.htm]

Vegetation significantly impacts soil health and soil is the most important medium for nearly all plants. Probe - Soil Science is an open access journal, aiming to provide a platform for global scientists to share ideas and solve issues in different areas of soil science.

It publishes original papers in the field of Soil and Global Change, Soil Biology and Biochemistry, Soil Chemistry, Soil Ecology, Soil Environment, Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition, Soil Geography, Soil Improvement Studies, Soil Microbiology and so on. We sincerely welcome submissions from everyone and everywhere.

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