Summary
This field experimental study evaluated how increasing tree species richness (1–24 species) shapes the trophic ecology of soil oribatid mites in subtropical Chinese plantations. Using stable isotope analysis, the authors demonstrate that tree diversity influences soil food web structure primarily through two pathways: increased litter functional diversity (which widens the range of feeding strategies available) and variable canopy cover (which affects light-dependent soil processes). Reproductive mode modulates trophic positioning, with parthenogenetic mites functioning predominantly as primary decomposers, whilst sexual species occupy a broader trophic range including fungal feeding and predation.
UK applicability
Whilst this research was conducted in subtropical conditions, the mechanistic insights into how forest structural diversity (litter heterogeneity and light availability) shapes soil food web complexity are relevant to UK woodland and agroforestry systems. The findings could inform UK land-use policy on tree planting and mixed-species forestry, though local validation would be needed given the different climatic and edaphic contexts.
Key measures
Δ15N and Δ13C stable isotope signatures; oribatid mite trophic position and trophic plasticity; litter functional diversity; litter C/N ratio; canopy cover; oribatid mite body mass and reproductive mode (sexual vs. parthenogenetic)
Outcomes reported
The study measured how tree species richness (1–24 species) influenced the trophic structure and feeding ecology of soil oribatid mites using stable isotope analysis (15N, 13C signatures). Results demonstrated that litter functional diversity, litter quality (C/N ratio), and canopy cover mediate the relationship between tree diversity and soil microarthropod food web complexity.
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