Final answer:
Vegetation plays a crucial role in reducing erosion by stabilizing soil with root systems. Deforestation and farming increase soil erosion and sediment discharge, affecting ecosystems and soil fertility. Soil-friendly practices can mitigate erosion and improve crop yields.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of vegetation significantly affects the amount of erosion. Plants and their root systems play a crucial role in stabilizing soil and reducing the erosional impact of environmental factors such as rainwater and wind. In intact forests, tree roots bind the soil together, preventing it from being washed away by rain, whereas areas with reduced vegetation cover, such as logged forests or agricultural lands, are more susceptible to erosion. Roads in these areas can further exacerbate erosion rates. Additionally, expansion of farming and deforestation have led to an increase in sediment discharge into oceans, adversely affecting ecosystems such as coral reefs.
Soil erosion is not just a surface issue; it profoundly impacts fertility and carbon storage capacity of the soil. Practices that increase vegetative cover or employ soil-friendly tillage can reduce wind erosion and improve soil quality, which in turn enhances crop yields and food security. Soil drainage and the chemical composition of the soil are also factors influencing plant growth, soil quality, and erosion rates, all of which are interconnected within an ecosystem.