This article examines the current state of steppe and arable soils in the Aktobe region, taking into
account the deterioration of their habitat conditions for soil organisms. The physical and physico
chemical parameters of the soil, as well as the density of earthworms per square meter, are analyzed
in order to conduct a comparative analysis between different types of soil. The structural diversity
of soils is also discussed and a forecast of their fertility is made based on the data obtained. These
studies were conducted on steppe and arable soils of the Martuk district of Aktobe region in the
summer-autumn period of 2022-2023. To determine the mechanical composition of the tested soils,
the method of N.I. Savvinov was used using a standard set of sieves and dry sieving. The
accounting of earthworms was carried out by the method of manual sampling according to the
methodology of M.S. Gilyarov's zoological sites. On the arable soil there was found vegetation
represented by zopnik-typchak-kovyalk association, where the composition of plants includes Stipa
lessingiana Trin et. Rupr., Festuca valesiaca Gaudin. and Phlomis tuberosa L. The main changes in
soil properties are manifested in their mechanical condition. Comparing the composition of steppe
and arable soils it was found that the content of agronomically valuable fraction decreased due to
the increase of microaggregates.
Within the scope of this study, certain findings are outlined: for instance, following the harvest
and removal of stubble in cultivated fields, there is a rise in the temperature of the topsoil layers,
disturbing its thermal equilibrium and potentially causing desiccation. Additionally, examples were
provided regarding the utilization of large-scale agricultural machinery, resulting in soil structure
degradation, heightened presence of dust particles, and reduction in pore spaces. These occurrences
have adverse effects on both the soil's water retention capacity and air circulation patterns.
The article also mentions processes that directly affect the life cycle of various invertebrates, in
our case earthworms, since their life depends on the condition of the upper layers of the soil. At the
end, a conclusion is presented based on the results of the completed studies.