Which factor is NOT influenced by soil composition?

Soil composition plays a significant role in various ecological factors, but climate conditions operate independently of it. Water retention, nutrient availability, and plant growth support are all directly influenced by the characteristics of the soil, such as texture, structure, and organic matter content.

Water retention is affected by soil composition because different soil types can hold differing amounts of moisture; for example, clay soils retain water better than sandy soils. Nutrient availability is also governed by soil composition since the minerals and organic matter present dictate what nutrients are accessible for plant uptake. Similarly, the ability of soil to support plant growth is directly tied to its composition, as the presence of necessary nutrients, soil pH, and the structure will influence plant health and vigor.

In contrast, climate conditions, such as temperature, precipitation, and seasonality, are external factors that do not depend on the soil's composition. While soil may be influenced by the climate over time (such as through weathering and nutrient cycling), the prevailing climate does not directly alter the inherent composition of the soil itself.