If we were to wipe out insects alone on this planet, the rest of life and humanity with it would mostly disappear from the land. Within a few months.
– E.O. Wilson; Biologist, Myrmecologist (expert on the study of Ants)
Insects and Mammals in soil
Earthworms, ants and termites mix the soil as they burrow, significantly affecting soil formation. Earthworms ingest soil particles and organic residues, enhancing the availability of plant nutrients in the material that passes through and out of their bodies. By aerating and stirring the soil, and by increasing the stability of soil aggregates, these organisms help to assure the ready infiltration of water. These organisms in the soil also help improve your Ph levels.
Ants and termites are often referred to as ” Soil engineers ” as when they create their nests there are several chemical and physical changes that become present. Such as increasing the presence of the most essential elements like Carbon , Nitrogen and phosphorus. [5] Which are all essential for plant and other organisms growth. They also can gather soil particles from differing depth levels of soil and deposit them in other places. Which then leads to the mixing of soil so it is richer with nutrients and other elements. Gopher sticking out of burrow
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Many mammals also find the soil to be very important to them. As many mammals such as gophers , moles , prairie dogs and other burrowing animals rely on this soil for protection and food. The animals even give back to the soil as them burrowing allows more rain , snow and water from ice to enter the soil instead of creating erosion. [6]
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soil_biology
