Certified Crop Advisor Practice Exam

What is a primary indicator of soil health?

1. Soil texture

2. pH levels

3. Organic matter content

4. Salinity levels

The correct answer is: Organic matter content

Organic matter content is considered a primary indicator of soil health due to its critical role in enhancing soil structure, fertility, and overall ecosystem function. High levels of organic matter improve soil texture, leading to better water retention and aeration, which in turn supports root development and nutrient uptake by plants. Additionally, organic matter acts as a reservoir of nutrients, contributing to the availability of essential elements for plant growth, and it fosters a diverse community of soil organisms, which are vital for nutrient cycling and the overall biological activity within the soil. While other factors like soil texture, pH levels, and salinity do influence soil health, they are not as comprehensive in their impact as organic matter. Soil texture affects drainage and root penetration but does not directly influence nutrient availability or microbial activity as organic matter does. pH levels are crucial for determining nutrient solubility and biological activity but do not provide insights into the overall soil structure and fertility as organic matter does. Salinity levels can affect plant health but are more of a symptom of other underlying soil issues rather than a fundamental indicator of soil health. Therefore, organic matter content stands out as a core element in assessing and maintaining healthy soils.