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Chapter 11: Problem 15

Explain how soil biota can be killed by human actions and some of the effects.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Human actions such as deforestation, use of chemicals, over farming, pollution and improper waste disposal can kill soil biota. This could reduce soil organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling which in turn can decrease soil fertility and crop yields, and affect biodiversity.

Step by step solution

01

Identifying Human Actions

Identify major human actions that can cause harm to soil biota. Examples could include deforestation, use of chemicals such as pesticides, over farming, pollution and improper waste disposal.
02

Explaining the Negative Effects of Those Actions

Explain how each of these actions can lead to the killing of soil biota. For instance, deforestation can lead to soil erosion which removes the upper layer of soil containing organic matter that soil organisms feed on. The use of chemicals can kill soil biota directly etc.
03

Describing the Resulting Effects

Explain the consequences of reduced soil biota due to human actions. The death of soil biota can lead to reductions in soil organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. This in turn can reduce soil fertility, leading to lower crop yields. Also, it could potentially lead to the extinction of certain soil species which would affect the overall biodiversity.

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