Functions of the soil organisms in the grassland ecosystem

Main Article Content

Gustavo Crespo

Abstract

An update in the progress of the scientific researches related to the functions of the soil organisms in the grassland ecosystem is shown. The performance of different microorganisms in this ecosystem is recognized, focusing, mainly, on the functions of primary decomposers, like beetles, worms and termites. It is emphasized that these organisms, responsible for decomposing the excretions of mammals and the litter of the grasslands, increase the general fertility of soils and grassland productivity. The interactions between the primary decomposers and the microorganisms, which live in their gastrointestinal track and in the soil, are determinant in the functioning of this ecosystem. Worms, beetles, and termites have an important function in recycling nutrients in ecosystems of well-managed grasslands.
Key words: organisms, soil, grassland, interactions.

Article Details

How to Cite
Crespo, G. (2013). Functions of the soil organisms in the grassland ecosystem. Cuban Journal of Agricultural Science, 47(4). Retrieved from https://cjascience.com/index.php/CJAS/article/view/377
Section
Review Article
Author Biography

Gustavo Crespo

Instituto de Ciencia Animal, Apartado Postal 24, San Jos? de las Lajas, Mayabeque, Cuba