Summary
This review article, published in Trends in Ecology & Evolution, synthesises research on soil biodiversity's role in agricultural sustainability. The authors argue that soil ecological engineering—deliberate manipulation of soil biological communities and processes—offers a pathway to intensify production whilst maintaining ecosystem functions. The paper suggests that enhanced soil biodiversity can improve nutrient cycling, water retention, pest suppression, and overall farm resilience.
UK applicability
The principles of soil ecological engineering and biodiversity enhancement are applicable to UK farming systems, particularly given policy emphasis on sustainable intensification and soil health under current agricultural support schemes. However, specific management recommendations would need localisation to UK soil types, climate variability, and regulatory contexts.
Key measures
Soil biodiversity metrics; ecosystem services; agricultural productivity; soil health indicators; ecological engineering interventions
Outcomes reported
The paper examines how soil biodiversity and ecological engineering approaches enhance agricultural sustainability. It synthesises evidence on the role of soil organisms and management practices in maintaining ecosystem functions that support crop productivity and resilience.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.