Effects of cropping systems upon the three-dimensional architecture of soil systems are modulated by texture.

ABSTRACT: Soil delivers fundamental ecosystem functions via interactions between physical and biological processes mediated by soil structure. The structure of soil is also dynamic and modified by natural factors and management intervention. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different cropping systems on soil structure at contrasting spatial scales. Three systems were studied in replicated plot field experiments involving varying degrees of plant-derived inputs to the soil, viz. perennial (grassland), annual (arable), and no-plant control (bare fallow), associated with two contrasting soil textures (clayey and sandy). We hypothesized the presence of plants results in a greater range (diversity) of pore sizes and that perennial cropping systems invoke greater structural heteroge

SUBMITTER: Bacq-Labreuil A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6088510 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature