ABSTRACT
Natural and urban soil ecosystems are different in terms of structure, function, trophic levels, soil biota, and ecosystem services. There are distinct differences between urban when compared to natural soil ecosystems. Impacts of urbanization are the primary causes of structural and functional differences in urban when compared to natural soil ecosystems. The soil ecosystem has several unique characteristics that distinguish it from ecosystems that exist in air and water. Healthy soil ecosystems will support healthy plant growth aboveground if they contain ample supplies of oxygen, water, and nutrients. The soils of urban systems are the same as those of the natural systems that exist in the area. The most damaging process that happens to urban soil is compaction. Healthy soil is loose and contains many voids or pockets filled with air or water. Compaction occurs when anything applies sufficient pressure to the soil to compress these air pockets.
