Dependence of Living Organisms on Soil
Soil is a fundamental resource that supports the survival of various living organisms in multiple ways:
- Plants Depend on Soil – Soil provides anchorage, water, and essential nutrients for plant growth. Plants, in turn, form the base of the food chain.
- Animals Depend on Soil – Herbivores feed on plants grown in soil, while carnivores depend on herbivores for food. Many animals, like earthworms and insects, live in the soil.
- Microorganisms in Soil – Bacteria, fungi, and other microbes help in decomposing organic matter, enriching soil fertility, and supporting plant growth.
No, organisms living in water are not completely independent of soil because:
- Soil Supports Aquatic Plants – Many water plants grow in soil at the bottom of water bodies and serve as food for aquatic animals.
- Nutrients from Soil Flow into Water Bodies – Essential minerals from soil get washed into lakes, rivers, and oceans, supporting aquatic life.
