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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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Early bird rates end soon for SSA National Conference
Soil Science Australia members and non-members planning to attend November’s conference get a discount if they register by the end of July.
Dieback milestone conference to be held at Murdoch
The Dieback Information Group Conference 2026 will include presentations from Professor Treena Burgess, Dr Sarah Sapsford and Mr Bob Du, who represent Murdoch University’s Harry Butler Institute (HBI).
Steady, or carbon goes
Murdoch University’s Emeritus Professor Richard Bell and Wheatbelt Natural Resource Management’s Aimee Mouritz discussed soil carbon in a recent podcast.
A quick dig with … Lyn Abbott
The University of Western Australia’s Emerita Professor Lyn Abbott AM reflects on an academic research and teaching career that recently culminated in national recognition. Congratulations, Lyn.