Soil Fauna Impacts on Soil Physical Properties

References ................................................................................................................................... 173

The physical degradation of soils is a major problem in many countries, and especially

in areas where the efficiency of rainwater use determines the success of crop production

(Kiepe et al., 2001; Oue

´

draogo et al., 2006). The deterioration of the physical properties

of soil can lead to the collapse of the soil’s structure (Lal et al., 1989; Pieri, 1989). After

this, soil system recovery is no longer possible without the action of flora or fauna

(including humans) that create the conditions necessary for restoring the structural

integrity of the soil.