Soil is a complex socio-ecological system that integrates natural elements like geology, climate, and biodiversity with human activities such as agriculture and urbanization. In the tropical dry forest ecoregion, soil has historically shaped settlement patterns and livelihoods. It supported early Mesoamerican civilizations through agriculture and continues to connect cultural and biological diversity. However, urban expansion now threatens soil health and biodiversity. Understanding soil as a socioecological connector is essential for sustainable development and preserving Mexico’s biocultural heritage.