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How is organic matter converted into humus?
Decomposition of organic matter is largely a biological process that occurs naturally. Successive decomposition of dead material and modified organic matter results in the formation of a more complex organic matter called humus (Juma, 1998). This process is called humification. Humus affects soil properties.
What is the transformation of raw organic material to humus?
When plant remains are incorporated into soil, several organic compounds decompose. Decomposition is a biological process where the physical collapse and biochemical transformation of the molecules in the organic complexes of dead matter are turned into simple, inorganic molecules, which are transformed into humus.
Is humus dead organic matter?
More precisely, humus is the dark organic matter that forms in soil when dead plant and animal matter (including aerobic compost) breaks down further, specifically through the action of anaerobic organisms. Humus has many nutrients that improve the health of soil, nitrogen being the most important.
What’s the difference between organic humus and compost?
Both compost and humus are formed with decaying organic material. By contrast, humus is formed by the decomposition of materials without oxygen present. This process is known as anaerobic decomposition, and it can take place in compost. In other words, humus is essentially used-up compost.
What are the types of humus?
Humus Types. Three humus types, mor, moder, and mull form in upland forests under aerobic conditions. A thick mat of undecomposed to partially decomposed litter that is not significantly incorporated into the mineral soil, present in coniferous forests. Decomposition is accomplished primarily by fungi.
What is composted organic humus for?
Humus gives the soil a much desired crumbly texture and improves soil structure by making the soil looser, allowing for easier flow of air and water. These are just a few great reasons why humus is important to your garden.
What is the difference between humus and topsoil?
Topsoil is the layer of humus (partially decomposed organic matter) between the surface and the subsoil. Once upon a time, topsoil was a deep, rich, organic layer. Compost is not topsoil. It can be used to make topsoil or improve topsoil, but is the wrong product for many applications that call for topsoil.
What has the highest humus content?
Out of the 8 type of soils found, alluvial soil and forest or mountain soil are found to have high humus content. But the soil that has an equal part of sand, silt and clay i.e. loamy soil is the type of soil which is richest in the humus content.