Soil Biodiversity: Influence of Soil Management Systems

Abstract

Aim: Soil represents one of the most diverse habitats found on our planet. Soil organisms play crucial roles within ecosystems by exerting influence over physical properties and processes, as well as contributing to carbon and energy fluxes and the cycling of nutrients. The activity and composition of soil organisms are significantly impacted by land use and land management practices. In this study, we examined the predominant functional groups present in soil two different soil management systems viz., organic and integrated nutrient management (INM). Methods: We collected soil samples from coconut-based cropping systems under organic soil management and integrated nutrient management. Soil samples were characterised for soil macrofauna, mesofauna, microfauna and microflora. Results: The presence of soil macrofauna, mesofauna, microfauna, and microflora was more pronounced under organic management. Furthermore, the PERMANOVA analysis indicated that while management practices did not significantly impact community dissimilarity in the study area, the depth of the soil did have a significant influence. Conclusion: Although the PERMANOVA analysis within the light conditions examined, revealed that the influence of management practices on community dissimilarity was not statistically significant, it was noted that organic management led to an enhancement in soil biodiversity. The results of this study offer a comprehensive evaluation of the manner in which the organic management and INM practices influence the biodiversity of the soil.