which of the following is not characteristic of humus?

Options

A. it is rich in organic matter such as lignin and cellulose.
B. it is colloidal in nature and serves as a reservoir of nutrients.
C. It is highly resistant to microbial action and undergoes slow decompositon
D. it is further degraded by the process of humification.

Answer

D

Explanation

Humus is dark brown amorphous gummy substance formed by partial decomposition of plant and animal matter. It constitutes the organic componet of soil and is rich in lignin and cellulose. Humus is formed from organic remains through the activity of decomposer microorganisms. Process of formation of humus from raw organic remains is called humification. Humus is quite resistant to microbial action. It is a reservoir of nutrients and is helpful in maintenance of soil moisture as well as aeration.It is colloidal in nature. Nutrients are released slowly as the humus is decomposed slowly. Humus is further degraded by some microbes and release of inorganic nutrients occur byu the process of mineralisation.