There is now enough data demonstrating that we are in a soil biodiversity crisis, as the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Conservation International recently released a report providing global information on soil-dependent species. The report identified approximately 8,653 soil-dependent species, with 1,758 (approximately 20.3%) globally threatened or at risk for extinction, and an additional 1,722 (approximately 19.9%) species lacking data.

Alarmingly, an estimated 35 species are thought to have gone extinct. Also, more than 40% of soil-dependent species assessed to date are thought to be at risk of extinction or lack sufficient data concerning their conservation status, thus contributing to a rapidly escalating soil biodiversity problem. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that more than 90% of all living organisms will spend at least a portion of their lifecycle in soil; therefore, soil ecosystems are foundational for ecosystems on Earth.

Why Soil Biodiversity Matters More Than We Think

In contrast to well-known animal species like pandas and penguins, the soil organisms are not well known because of their small size; however, these groups of organisms are essential components of the global ecosystem. Approximately 59% of all known species on the planet occur predominantly in soils, including all types of fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates.

The various groups occupy roles that allow them to perform important ecosystem services, such as regulating the nutrient cycling process, breaking down organic matter (decomposing), and sequestering carbon.

Also Read: More Than Half Of Britain’s Butterfly Species Are In Decline, Monitoring Finds

How Soil Biodiversity Drives Climate Regulation and Ecosystem Stability

Healthy soils help mitigate climate change by storing carbon. Research conducted and published by Cambridge University Press indicates that properly managed soils could store up to 27% of the carbon necessary to avoid global average warming exceeding 2°C relative to pre-industrial levels, and that this sequestered carbon would amount to approximately 3.38 gigatonnes of CO₂ per year.

If the soil organisms are not available, the process of decomposition will slow down, preventing the recycling of nutrients and reducing agricultural productivity. This problem will subsequently start a ripple effect through the remainder of the ecosystem.

Also Read: The Return Of Species Once Thought Extinct: What It Means For Conservation

The Underlying Factors Behind the Soil Crisis

The soil biodiversity crisis is caused by several factors, including:

• Intensive farming: Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides harms soil microbes.
• Land transformation: Urban expansion and deforestation harm soil environments.
• Chemical contamination: Changes soil composition and kills valuable microbes.
• Global warming: Alters soil temperatures and moisture levels.

Studies reveal that places with intensive industrial agriculture, such as some Western European and North American areas, face the greatest threats. Yet, developing countries are now at greater risk due to increased agricultural needs.

CR: Critically Endangered, EN: Endangered, VU: Vulnerable

Also Read: What A Shifting Bear Diet Reveals About Climate Change

A Dangerous Feedback Loop in Agriculture

A huge problem with the soil biodiversity crisis is its relation to agriculture: as biodiversity decreases, there are fewer viable crops to grow, which forces farmers to use more chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides. As soil degradation from higher agrochemical levels worsens, soil health declines, and farmers continue to use more agrochemicals.

This cycle threatens food security, strains water systems through runoff, and causes long-term loss of soil fertility. Once soils undergo changes in their chemistry, ecosystems lose their ability to respond adequately to climate extremes such as drought and other severe weather events.

Also Read: Toxic Legacy: 520+ Chemicals Discovered In Soil Across England

Why Data Deficiency Is a Major Concern

One in five soil species is data-deficient, indicating insufficient scientific knowledge to evaluate their extinction probability. It reveals a significant gap in the field of conservation science.

The contributors to the IUCN Red List have pointed out that soil biodiversity is seriously under-represented in comparison with terrestrial and marine species.

Also Read: Soil CO2 Emissions Surge Due To Drying And Rewetting Cycles

Bridging Conservation and Agriculture

It is widely acknowledged that addressing the crisis involves coordination between conservationists and farmers. While many farmers are aware that soil fertility is directly related to biodiversity, there are insufficient policies and a lack of awareness.

Main recommendations involve:

• Forming an international soil biodiversity task force
• Introducing soil biodiversity into agricultural policies
• Practicing sustainable agriculture by rotating crops and minimizing chemicals
• Raising awareness and educating the public

Short Insight: The Role of Decomposition

Decomposers are an excellent demonstration of the living diversity found in soils. Soil microorganisms decompose dead plants and animals into their constituent parts, returning those nutrients to the soil.

Without this process, ecosystems would be at a standstill and experience a depletion of nutrients and a decrease in productivity.

Also Read: Why Peatlands Are One Of Earth’s Biggest Carbon Sponges

Why Protecting Soil Life Is Non-Negotiable

The soil biodiversity crisis is a silent crisis occurring under our feet, less visible than large, but its systemic negative effects on food security, climate stability, and the health of our ecosystems are far greater. Over 40% of soil species are either at risk of extinction or have not received enough scientific study to determine their level of conservation need.

Protecting soil biodiversity is not only an environmental concern; it is a necessary condition for the survival of life on Earth. A combination of better research, agricultural practices that are consistent with ecological principles, and increasing public awareness can help to address the crisis before it reaches the point of no return.

Also Read: Global Biodiversity Loss: Why Species Are Disappearing Faster Than Ever

FAQs

1. What is soil biodiversity?

Soil biodiversity involves the different types of organisms present in soil, like bacteria, fungi, insects, and worms, that facilitate ecosystem functions.

2. Why is soil biodiversity vital for combating climate change?

Soils can capture substantial carbon, up to 27% of the needed emission reductions, which makes it necessary to mitigate climate impacts.

3. What measures should be taken to preserve soil biodiversity?

Using sustainable agriculture techniques, minimizing chemical utilization, protecting habitats, and conducting soil species research should be considered.

Also Read: Biodiversity At A Crossroads: Species Gains And Losses In 2025