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8 Terms
1
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Vegetation removal
Removes natural windbreak, protection against rain splash erosion, soil-binding roots, and reduces infiltration of water into the soil
2
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Why is vegetation important in reducing soil erosion?
* Natural windbreak * Vegetation cover and leaf litter reduce rain splash erosion * Roots and humus bind soil together * Increase rate of infiltration of water
3
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Ploughing vulnerable soils
Breaks up soil structure, exposing soil particles to erosion by water or wind
4
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Overgrazing
Removal of vegetation faster than it can grow, and disturbance and root damage by hooves
5
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Ploughing, reducing soil organic matter, use of agrochemicals
Reduction of living organisms in the soil
6
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Why are soil biota important?
* **Detritivores** and **decomposers**: break down DOM, releasing plant nutrients → increased vegetation cover * Decomposition: produces humus → increases adhesion between soil particles * **Worms**: aerate the soil, increasing soil drainage rates + infiltration capacity
7
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Use of heavy farm machinery, high livestock densities, reduced soil detritivores