Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography (10th Edition)
Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography (10th Edition)
10th Edition
ISBN: 9780134597119
Author: Robert W. Christopherson, Ginger E. Birkeland
Publisher: PEARSON
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Chapter 18, Problem 1GQ
To determine

The similarities and dissimilarities between the effects of mammals and plant roots on the soil.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Soil organisms vary in size from land mammals that tunnel into the ground, to earthworms, to microscopic organisms. These living organisms help in maintaining soil fertility.

Mammals and plant roots move through the soil to provide nutrients to the soil. They both can increase the fertility of the soil. Following are the dissimilarities between the effects of mammals and plant roots on soil:

No. Criteria Mammals Plant roots
1. Soil erosion Mammals can cause soil erosion by disturbing the soil structure. Plant roots hold the soil particles and help in decreasing soil erosion.
2. Channels Mammals utilize the channels present in the soil to move across the soil. Plant roots move through the soil and form channels.
3. Fertility Mammals can reduce the fertility of the soil by reducing the organisms, such as earthworms and other materials that increase soil fertility. Plant roots do not generally reduce soil fertility.

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