Summary
This dataset paper presents a comprehensive 30-year compilation (1987–2020) of soil macrofauna records from the Eastern European Alps, encompassing 1572 observations across 241 sites and 22 habitat types. The standardised protocol and long temporal span provide a foundation for tracking macroecological patterns and long-term changes in alpine soil fauna composition. The work addresses a significant knowledge gap regarding soil macro-invertebrate distribution in mountain regions, which have underappreciated importance for downstream ecosystems and communities dependent on mountain soils.
Regional applicability
This study covers the Eastern European Alps and is geographically distinct from the United Kingdom. However, the methodology and habitat classification systems may be partially transferable to UK upland and mountain soils; the standardised sampling protocols could inform comparable UK alpine or moorland soil fauna surveys, though biogeographic differences would necessitate context-specific interpretation.
Key measures
Occurrence and abundance of soil macro-invertebrate taxa; site parameters including elevation, exposition, inclination, soil type (WRB classification), habitat type, and management type
Outcomes reported
The study compiled 1572 records of soil macro-invertebrates from 241 sampling sites across 22 habitat types in the Eastern European Alps, documenting 19 taxa at class or order level and earthworms at species level. Data include site parameters (GPS coordinates, habitat type, management type, elevation, exposition, inclination, bedrock, and soil classification) collected over 30+ years using standardised protocols.
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.