Effects of soil regeneration methods on beneficial mesofauna in a spring triticale field

Abstract

© 2017, University of Zagreb - Faculty of Agriculture. All rights reserved. The aim of the study was to determine possible changes in the abundance and species diversity of soil dwelling springtails (Collembola) and mites (Acari) due to different conditioners and soil regeneration methods applied on a spring triticale (×Triticosecale) field. The experiment was conducted in 2008-2009 at the Swojec Agricultural Experimental Station in Wrocław. Different methods of soil regeneration were used including mustard cropping as green manure, soil conditioners, i.e. EM (Effective Microorganisms) and Rosahumus. These treatments were cultivated in conventional and zero-tillage system. Zero-tillage system, due to plant residues was treated as a soil regeneration method. Soil samples for mesofauna analysis were taken twice per season when plants were at the tillering stage (22-25 BBCH) and during inflorescence emergence (BBCH 51-55). Springtails and mites were extracted from the soil using Tullgren funnels. The studied organisms were significantly more numerous in the zero-tillage cropping system in comparison to conventional tillage system, what is positive for soil quality. The distinct preference of mites Astigmata to the zero-cropping system was noted. Depending on the tillage system, different preferences of mesofauna groups to soil conditioners were found. Zero-tillage cropping is most useful soil regeneration method for beneficial mites and springtails preservation.