The influence of soil biota on water infiltration and throughflow in the soil
05 / 2001 - unknown
Context: Soil degradation in semi-natural, degraded Mediterranean ecosystems, consists of the loss of valued soil characteristics, like the ability of water infiltration and retention, e.g. the soil structure, aggregation and aggregate stability. Roots, soil microorganisms and organic matter content of the soil which are important, dynamic, causes of soil aggregation, tend to vary as a consequence of climatic variations. Aim: The relation between occurrence and soil structuring role of soil biota and the processes of water infiltration and throughflow in the soil, and its influence on the soil erosion process, in several Mediterranean ecosystems in Spain and Israel. Methods: Field survey, soil physical and chemical analyses, micromorphology, microbiology.