Question

How do microarthopods interact with soil fungi

microarthopods distribute fungal spores to new substrates

microarthopods provide new substrates for fungi by producing nutrient rich fecal matter

microarthopods increase utilization of litter for fungi by frangmenting coarse litter

check all that apply

Answer 1

All are applicable:

micro-arthropods distribute fungal spores to new substrates

micro-arthropods provide new substrates for fungi by producing nutrient-rich fecal matter

micro-arthropods increase utilization of litter for fungi by fragmenting coarse litter

After initial colonization of soil material by bacteria, fungi, and micro-arthropods, physically break down the litter and increase surface area for decomposition. Some micro-arthropods possess sporothecae, are the structures involved in the transport of fungal spores. When they feed on surface litter, micro-arthropods produce particulate organic material and fecal aggregates that improves soil structure and create hotspots for microbial activity, it facilitates colonization of plant material by fungi. soil micro-arthropods, springtails and mites play a primary role in organic matter breakdown and its incorporation to the soil system