51�Թ�

The anaerobic environment under those layers preserves the carbon until it can be captured by the soil, a process called humification.

Living in this very top layer of fluffy, crumbly, moist soil mixed with leaf material and humus, are the animals that begin the process of humification.

Dr. Maerz thinks the effect on the carbon cycle may apply in wet conditions, but not when the weather is too dry for humification.