Shifts in soil faunal community structure in shaded cacao agroforests and consequences for ecosystem function in Central Africa and consequences for ecosystem function in Central Africa
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Date
2009
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Abstract
We assessed the effects of fungicide application on soil fauna in shaded Theobroma cacao agro-forests in Cameroon and compared this with forest. Fewer termite species were found in cacao (19) than in forest (29). Species absent in cacao included specialist soil-feeders (Apilitermes, Crenetermes, Cubitermes) and specialist wood-feeders (Microcerotermes, Nasutitermes). Conversely, more generalist soil-wood-interface-feeders (Termes, Amalotermes) were more frequent in cacao. Mean earthworm densities were 80 m-2 in the forest and 81 m-2 in the unsprayed cacao, significantly higher than in either low or high sprayed cacao treatments (52 m-2 and 57 m-2 respectively). The dominant forest epigeic, Eminoscolex lamani was absent in cacao. Rosadrilus camerunensis, the sole anecic and dominant cast producer had reduced population in cacao and was absent in the high fungicide treatment. The role of this species in ecosystem functioning is highlighted and methods to maintain population, including improving litter quality and reducing soil contamination discussed.
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Keywords
Cameroon, Central Africa, earthworms, humid tropics, Rosadrilus camerunensis, termites, Theobroma cacao, seedbanks
Citation
Tropical Ecology 50(1): 71-78, 2009