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Soil tillage is, and will remain, the guiding component of soil management and consequently has far-reaching implications for agroecosystems. Understanding structures and functions of soil ecosystems under different tillage/no tillage practices is an essential requirement for any future farming concepts. Soil Tillage in Agroecosystems emphasizes these aspects in all 12 chapters, highlighting both the short- and long-term effects of soil cultivation practices on the soil ecosystem above and below the soil surface.
Using the knowledge of soil ecology under natural, undisturbed conditions, the text focuses on how cultivation affects soil and the soil environment. In particular it highlights how methods of soil tillage can influence soil structure, soil chemical processes, soil borne pathogens, and pest species. Covering the aspects of soil tillage on different taxa, the book concludes with a synthesis of the role of soil tillage in securing a sustainable agricultural environment.
Soil Tillage in Agroecosystems offers a broad and comprehensive view of the interrelations of multifaceted tillage practices and the biological, chemical, and physical components of soil ecosystems. Tillage effects are highlighted within the context of the whole farming system, so as to provide the scientific basis for choosing different tillage options in order to achieve the best possible sustainable base for long-lasting agricultural production.
List of contents
Introduction, Techniques of Soil Tillage. The Role of Soil Tillage for Soil Structure. Soil Microbial Activity and Diversity In Function Of Agricultural Practice. Soil Tillage for Sustainable Nutrient Management. Implications of Soil Tillage for Crop and Weed Seeds. Tillage Implications for Weeds in Crop Ecosystems. Influence of Cultivation Practices on Cereal Diseases. Tillage and Slugs in Arable Farming Systems. Interactions Between Tillage and Earthworms in Agroecosystems. Invertebrates in Soil Tillage Ecosystems. Soil Tillage and Epigeal Predatory Arthropods. The Synthesis.
About the author
Adel El Titi
Summary
Building on our knowledge of soil ecology under natural, undisturbed conditions, this work focuses on how cultivation affects soil and the soil environment. In particular, it highlights how methods of soil tillage can influence soil structure, soil chemical processes, soil borne pathogens, and pest species.
