Impact of Agrochemicals on Soil Fertility and Biodiversity of Soil Arthropods

Abstract

The widely applied agrochemicals--fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides--have drastically increased crop production, at the same time alarming scientists and farmers about the adverse effects on soil and ecosystems. The current study investigates how agrochemicals change the soil's fertility and influence the biodiversity of soil-dwelling arthropods. The presence of soil arthropods (such as mites, springtails, and beetles) is crucial for the processes of nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and soil aeration. The findings indicate that short-term fertility may be improved, but long-term application of agrochemicals will lead to lower fertility, soil organic matter loss, disruption of nutrient cycles, and eventually extinction of certain species. Use of environmentally friendly practices and integrated pest management are proposed to maintain soil health.

Keywords: Soil, Environment, Protection, Animal.