The major difference between these aerobic decomposition and anaerobic decomposition is oxygen. Aerobic decomposition occurs when oxygen is present. Anaerobic decomposition occurs when there is a lack of oxygen.
What Is Decomposition?
Decomposition happens all the time, in our fields, in our clothes, and in our bodies. It’s the natural process by which organic matter breaks down into simpler components. Organic matter in our fields becomes humus, our clothes wear thin and rip, our bodies are constantly digesting food and sending nutrients throughout our bodies.
The same decomposing bacterial and fungal families are found in almost all environments. The same bacteria found in your fields are found in the human gut, which only makes sense because we eat that food.
The clothes on our backs are also made of many natural materials we grow in our fields. Hemp, cotton, and linen all come in contact with decomposing microorganisms.
As long as there’s no flood, most decomposition is aerobic. Microorganisms that live in oxygen-rich environments such as crop residues, leaves, and manure break down that organic matter into nutrient-rich humus.
The Characteristics of Aerobic Decomposition
Crop residues that have an abundance of microorganisms in a well-aerated environment decompose fast. There’s high microbial activity and higher temperatures in the organic matter. Oxygen fuels the microbial activity, leading to the production of rich, dark soil.
Rich, dark soil promotes healthy plant growth by providing essential nutrients. At the same time, the beneficials discourage harmful pathogens. Under optimal conditions, crop residues can turn into brittle organic matter, are easy to plant into, and benefit soil health and plant yield.
The Characteristics of Anaerobic Decomposition
Anaerobic decomposition occurs in the absence of oxygen. It’s common in waterlogged or compacted soils.
The speed of decomposition is slower in anaerobic soils compared to aerobic soils. Microorganisms efficient in anaerobic conditions tend to release methane as a by-product of the decomposition process.
Acidification often occurs in waterlogged fields, such as rice paddies. Nutrients such as nitrogen and sulfur may be lost in the decomposition process.
Many pathogens prefer anaerobic soil conditions. In anaerobic conditions, these pathogens can outcompete or even kill off beneficial aerobic bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria are found in compacted soil, deep within soil particles, and in any soil where oxygen is limited.
Very few fungi survive in anaerobic conditions.
How Does Microbial Balance Affect Your Field Health?
Aerobic microbes and their decomposing activities improve soil structure, allowing better root penetration and water infiltration. The crop residues that have an active aerobic microbial community discourage harmful pests and pathogens.
Regenerative farming emphasizes aerobic decomposition to enhance soil health and minimize environmental impact.
In an aerobic system, the bacteria and fungi, nematodes, and protozoa are just the beginning of the soil life. Earthworms, spiders, and many beneficial insects all aid in creating rich soil for optimum plant growth.
If you’re suffering with compacted or waterlogged soil, contact our team at ST Biologicals. We’re here to help you succeed.
