Soil Composition
The soil in temperate grasslands is very fertile. Specifically in the North American prairie, the soil has benefited greatly from the presence of prairie dogs. These rodents dig complex tunnel systems underneath the ground, which aerated the soil, and allows water to reach several feet further below the surface.
Because of the presence of both natural and man-made fires, the plants in the prairie have adapted accordingly. Two-thirds of most prairie plants are below the ground, giving them a way to regrow after the surface is burned. This has helped the soil because some of these plants die every year and decompose in the soil, which adds much organic matter and makes the soil much more fertile. The soil of the North American prairie is great for growing plants and grasses, which is why it is a popular area to graze livestock.
Because of the presence of both natural and man-made fires, the plants in the prairie have adapted accordingly. Two-thirds of most prairie plants are below the ground, giving them a way to regrow after the surface is burned. This has helped the soil because some of these plants die every year and decompose in the soil, which adds much organic matter and makes the soil much more fertile. The soil of the North American prairie is great for growing plants and grasses, which is why it is a popular area to graze livestock.
