This course reviews the soil characteristics that provide a living environment for organisms and provides a comprehensive overview of the organism diversity inhabiting soils. Roles of both soil meso- and micro-fauna and flora in soil development and nutrient cycling will be discussed. The topics cover organism activities and their role as beneficial as well as harmful organisms, and the effects of those activities on ecosystem function. The effect of cultural practices on microbes and the use of microorganisms in bioremediation of contaminated soil and groundwater will also be included. PREREQ: BIOL 1506/7, BIOL 2356, CHMI 1006/07. (lec 3, lab 3) cr 3