THE SOIL BIOTA: IMPORTANCE IN AGROFORESTRY AND AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS

The biological component of soil is important for the maintenance and functioning of ecosystems. Currently there have been some studies on the diversity of soil biota and their role in key soil processes. Microorganisms are critical to the functioning of biological systems and the maintenance of life on the planet, since they participate in metabolic, ecological and biotechnological processes on which we depend for survival and for facing future challenges. Soil organisms maintain soil processes such as carbon capture and storage, nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, water infiltration, aeration, and organic matter degradation. The effects of these ecosystem services are not yet fully explored, especially soil microorganisms (bacteria and fungi), and macro-organisms (earthworms).