A soil ecosystem comprises a diverse community of organisms residing within the soil, where they interact with one another and their environment. This community includes bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, earthworms, insects, small mammals, and plant roots.
For example, bacteria and fungi break down organic matter into simpler compounds, releasing nutrients that can be taken up by plants. Earthworms and other soil-dwelling organisms help to aerate the soil and improve its structure, which in turn enhances water infiltration and root penetration. Plant roots release exudates that attract beneficial microbes and help to create a favorable environment for nutrient uptake.
During this activity, participant will explore the marvels hidden beneath the soil. They will use a magnetic wand to search and gather all the microbes or earthworms dwelling beneath the soil surface. Throughout the gameplay, participants may encounter diverse types of microbes, earthworms, and other organisms, revealing the secrets of soil life. Through this experience, participants will learn about the interconnectedness of different organisms within ecosystems, such as how earthworms contribute to soil health and how microbes might play a role in nutrient cycling.
