Cranfield University

Biodiversity and soils - Quiz

Answer each question below, then choose Check answers to see your score. You can reveal the correct responses after marking.

1 What is the most vital aspect of soil?

The number and range of organisms that live in it Its colour? How easily it makes mud-pies?

2 Living in a teaspoonful of healthy soil there are more organisms than live in...

the UK Europe the whole world the Isle of Wight

3 Which of these factors are threatening many of the world's soils?

Soil erosion, salination, pollution and contamination Sealing by buildings and infrastructure Both the above

4 Are soil organisms vital to the growth of plants?

Yes No Sometimes, mainly in Autumn

5 Why do we still have a lot to learn about the organisms that live in the soil?

There are so many types of microscopic organisms They are below ground and out of sight Both the above

6 When has the pressure on land caused by growth of the world's population been greatest?

In medieval times At the present time During the Roman occupation

7 What is one effect on soil of the change from forest to arable farming?

Significant change in the number and type of organisms More logs to keep people warm in winter Badgers will come and live in that area

8 What can we do to encourage healthy biodiversity in our soils?

Take more care how we manage worldwide soils Learn much more about soil organisms Both the above

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