Summary
This field study evaluated soil quality indicators across four contrasting land use types in the Free State province, South Africa, with emphasis on soil macrofauna as biological indicators. Twenty-five macrofauna species were identified as bioindicators, with integrated livestock–cropping systems showing superior overall soil quality. The findings suggest that soil macrofauna assessments could provide a practical, farmer-accessible method for evaluating the effectiveness of different agricultural management practices.
UK applicability
The methodology for identifying soil macrofauna bioindicators is potentially transferable to UK contexts, though the specific indicator species and optimal management practices would differ given distinct soil fauna communities and climate. UK farmers and advisors could adapt this approach to develop locally-relevant soil quality assessment protocols.
Key measures
Soil macrofauna species identification and abundance; soil physical indicators (structure, porosity); soil chemical indicators (fertility); soil biological indicators (diversity); bioindicator species designation
Outcomes reported
The study identified 25 soil macrofauna species as bioindicators of soil quality and compared soil physical, chemical, and biological indicators across four land use types. Integrated livestock–cropping systems demonstrated superior soil quality compared to conventional management, with soil macrofauna biodiversity closely linked to overall soil quality.
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