Infiltration and percolation
Infiltration and Percolation are maintained through a continuum of bio-physical processes, supported by the soil biota considered as ecosystem engineers: earthworms[1],[2], enchytraeids[3], ants[4], fungal hyphae[5], and plant roots[6], etc. The processes Bioturbation and Aggregation contribute to this sub-function through changing soil structure, which in turn supports soil water retention and flow. Infiltration and percolation is also dependent upon the presence of macropores, which provide a conduit for water within the soil matrix.
[1] Blouin M. et al. 2013. A review of earthworm impact on soil function and ecosystem services. European Journal of Soil Science 64: 161–182.
[2] Taylor AR et al. 2019. Ant and Earthworm Bioturbation in Cold-Temperate Ecosystems. Ecosystems 22: 981–994.
[3] Dawod V & FitzPatrick EA. 1993. Some population sizes and effects of the Enchytraeidae (Oligochaeta) on soil structure in a selection of Scottish soils. Geoderma 56: 173–178.
[4] Taylor AR et al. 2019. Ant and Earthworm Bioturbation in Cold-Temperate Ecosystems. Ecosystems 22: 981–994.
[5] Rillig MC. & Mummey DL. 2006. Mycorrhizas and soil structure. New Phytologist 171: 41–53.
[6] Six J. et al. 2004. A history of research on the link between (micro) aggregates, soil biota, and soil organic matter dynamics. Soil and Tillage Research 79: 7–31.