Which of the following help in aerating the soil?

Soil aeration is a critical ecosystem service facilitated by various soil organisms classified by size. Macrofauna, such as earthworms, termites, and ants, play a primary mechanical role by burrowing and reworking soil, which creates large pores (macropores) that permit the passage of air and water [c1][c3][t1]. Mesofauna (e.g., microarthropods) and microfauna (e.g., bacteria and protozoa) also contribute significantly. While macrofauna create galleries and burrows [t1], mesofauna influence soil porosity and pore size distribution through their movement and feeding activities [t3]. Microfauna, including aerobic bacteria, require oxygen for processes like nitrogen fixation and oxidation, and their interactions with the soil matrix help maintain the sponge-like structure necessary for aeration [c2][c3]. Collectively, these organisms act as 'ecosystem engineers' that modify the physical and chemical properties of the soil, ensuring it remains porous and well-aerated [c3][t10].

Sources

1. [1] FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Geomorphic Processes > Biological Activity > p. 45
2. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 6: Soils > Soil Air > p. 3
3. [3] FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Geomorphic Processes > Process of Soil Formation > p. 44
4. [4] https://www.fao.org/4/i0211e/i0211e.pdf