Life in the Soil: A Guide for Naturalists and Gardeners

Leonardo da Vinci observed that we understand the movement of celestial bodies better than the soil beneath our feet—a statement that remains true today. The biological world underground is largely unexplored and underappreciated, yet densely populated. A single square meter of earth contains trillions of bacteria, millions of nematodes, hundreds of thousands of mites, thousands of insects and worms, and hundreds of snails and slugs. Due to their small size and hidden location, these creatures are as unfamiliar to us as deep-ocean life. Life in the Soil features nearly three hundred color illustrations and black and white drawings throughout. Biologist and natural history artist James B. Nardi introduces soil ecosystems and explains how underground organisms recycle nutrients and maintain earth's fertility. The book then presents diverse soil inhabitants: wolf spiders with glowing red eyes, snails with 120 rows of teeth, and 10,000-year-old fungi, among others. Organized by taxon, the book covers slime molds, roundworms, woodlice, dung beetles, and vertebrates including salamanders and shrews. It explores the crucial role of soil ecosystems in conserving both underground and above-ground environments.