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Evolution Earth

Scientists Look to Soil for Answers on Climate Change

Season 1 Episode 5 | 3m 07s

Plant life on our planet is reacting to the changing climate. So scientists like Jane Zelikova are turning to the soil for an insight as to what is going on. Here in Kansas we see her and her research colleague Dr. Megan Machmuller digging down to take soil and root samples. She explains how grass systems play a vital role in carbon sequestration and the importance of necromass.

Extras
Watch • 5:45
Evolution Earth
A Herd of Buffalo Are Returned to the Fort Peck Reservation
A momentous occasion as a new Buffalo herd are returned to the Fort Peck Reservation.
Clip: S1 E5 | 5:45
Watch • 3:16
Evolution Earth
A Growing Number of Wildebeest In the Serengeti
Wildebeest numbers rose after eradicating rinderpest. The Serengeti ecosystem rebounded.
Clip: S1 E5 | 3:16
Watch • 55:05
Evolution Earth
Grasslands
Forgotten and overlooked, grasslands could hold the key to our planet’s survival.
Episode: S1 E5 | 55:05
Watch • 55:25
Evolution Earth
Ice
At the planet’s frozen extremes, animals can reveal the changes taking place.
Episode: S1 E4 | 55:25