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More than half of Earth’s species live in soil, study finds
Soil estimated to be home to 90% of world’s fungi, 85% of plants and more than 50% of bacteria, making it the world’s most species-rich habitat.
Soil organisms mediate unique functions we rely on for food, fiber, and human and planetary health. Despite the significance of soil life, we lack a quantitative estimate of soil biodiversity, making it challenging to advocate for the importance of protecting, preserving, and restoring soil life. Here, authors show that soil is likely home to 59% of life including everything from microbes to mammals, making it the singular most biodiverse habitat on Earth. The enumeration in this paper can enable stakeholders to more quantitatively advocate for soils in the face of the biodiversity crisis.
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Soil education roles open for national project
Murdoch University is inviting applications for two roles as part of the National Soils Education Opportunity (NSEO).
Mallee visit to share sandy soil research findings
Murdoch University’s Emeritus Professor Richard Bell will deliver nutrition, water and root depth information to researchers and growers at a South Australian event.
Expressions of interest open for soil testing programs
Western Australian farmers are encouraged to express their interest in soil testing programs provided by their state and federal governments.
Five key features of the Soil Quality Knowledge Base
The Soil Quality Knowledge Base is your comprehensive online platform with information, research and tools to understand and manage soil in agricultural systems.