Nest in semi-darkness Print

The most important ecological function of fallen leaves and branches is that their decomposition promotes the formation of humus, improving soil fertility. Thus, fallen leaves contain up to 80% of the nutrients that a tree absorbs during the growing season, acting as natural moisture retainers and soil fixers, thereby preventing soil erosion and controlling land degradation. Additionally, there is biodiversity that thrives thanks to them, such as insects like beetles, stick insects, spiders, mosquitoes, toads, ants, etc. During an investigation into the decrease in beetles or bugs in Colombia, and why this was happening, I discovered that much of what is happening is that these animals no longer have the proper habitat to live in, and their ecosystem has been practically destroyed by human action, urban growth, construction, soil erosion or nutrient depletion, as well as the lack of trees and shrubs. Thanks to this research, I started the process of composting at home using recycled bins, and I realized the importance of the organic matter cycle in generating new life. Essentially, nature is like a phoenix that arises from the decomposition of some elements, which transform into new elements - some die and others are born. From there, I see how we can all be reborn, like the phoenix; I realize that we are nature, that we have the power to start anew and not from scratch. I see the light of hope growing, revealing to me the fact that we have always been part of something greater, that we are never alone, that there has always been a purpose to exist. [Source 1](.pdf) [Source 2](#:~:text=Las%20hojas%20secas%20tambi%C3%A9n%20act%C3%BAan,y%20deterioro%20continuo%20del%20suelo.)