Which type of soil particles are involved in the degradation of terrestrial productivity?

Clay particles are notably involved in the degradation of terrestrial productivity due to their unique properties, which can significantly impact soil health and productivity. Clay has a very small particle size, which allows it to retain water and nutrients more effectively than larger particles. However, this same property can lead to issues such as poor drainage and aeration.

When clay soils become compacted, which can occur due to heavy agricultural practices or excess moisture, they can inhibit root growth and limit the availability of oxygen to plants. This compaction can lead to reduced biological activity in the soil, such as the activity of earthworms and microorganisms essential for nutrient cycling, further contributing to a decline in productivity.

In addition, clay soils may also become subject to erosion if they are not properly managed with vegetation or cover crops, leading to a loss of topsoil and the essential nutrients required for plant growth. Thus, while clay soils can offer benefits in terms of nutrient retention, their propensity for compaction and erosion can detrimentally affect terrestrial productivity if proper soil management practices are not employed.

Colluvial soils, primarily formed through the accumulation of material at the base of slopes, have different characteristics and are usually not categorized as major contributors to degradation in the same manner that clay soils are. Sand