Unsung Heroes Supporting the Forest Ecosystem

Tree roots play a crucial role in preventing landslides and slope collapses. Tree roots spread in different ways depending on the species. Some trees grow deep, straight roots that act like stakes, while others spread their roots horizontally like a net, holding the soil in place.

Forests with a diverse mix of tree species tend to have roots that tightly intertwine, thereby stabilizing the soil. As a result, these forests develop a stable soil structure that resists erosion and that ensures slopes are less prone to slides.

Different root growth patterns underground

Tree roots also form the foundation of permeable, soft soil. Extending out from their structural roots, trees have fine roots, which follow a cycle of withering in winter and regenerating in spring. This process not only loosens and aerates the soil but also leaves behind hollowed-out pathways from the withered fine roots, which then act like tubes to channel groundwater.

Roots also play a role in maintaining and improving biodiversity of soil organisms. Many plants coexist with mycorrhizal fungi in the soil, which help them absorb water and minerals. Plant roots actively release nutrients to attract mycorrhizal fungi and bacteria.

Different roots attract diverse microorganisms, so the more diverse the plant species, the greater the diversity of microorganisms in the forest soil. New roots, along with the microorganisms they attract, become a prime food source for earthworms and other creatures. This process promotes soil aggregation*, which is key to creating soft soil.

This involves the formation of small clumps of soil particles. Air pockets form in between these small clumps, resulting in soil with excellent air and water retention.

A variety of root growth patterns