Summary
This editorial introduces a special issue that reframes agricultural systems through an evolutionary lens, arguing that conventional simplified farming systems harbour considerable hidden complexity when examined at genetic, ecological, and microbial scales. By integrating findings across phenotypic responses, species interactions, and soil microbiology, the authors demonstrate that understanding such complexity is essential for improving food system sustainability. The collection suggests that evolving agricultural practices fundamentally shape ecosystem structure in ways that merit closer evolutionary scrutiny.
UK applicability
The findings are likely applicable to UK agriculture, where intensification and simplification of cropping systems remain prevalent. Understanding evolutionary complexity in these systems could inform sustainable intensification strategies and soil management practices relevant to UK farming policy and practice.
Key measures
The special issue collectively examines phenotypic and genetic variation, biotic interactions, and microbial community structure across crop production systems under different agricultural practices.
Outcomes reported
This editorial synthesises research demonstrating unforeseen complexity across multiple levels of agricultural systems, from microbial communities to food webs. It integrates findings on phenotypic and genetic responses, biotic interactions, and microbial roles within the context of evolving agricultural practices.
Topic tags
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