Abstract
Stopping the increase of atmospheric CO 2 level is an important task and information on how to implement adjustments on tillage practices could help lower soil CO 2 emissions would be helpful. We describe how rotary tiller use on a red latosol affected soil CO 2 efflux. The impact of changing blade rotation speed and rear shield position on soil CO 2 efflux was investigated. Significant differences among treatments were observed up to 10 days after tillage. Cumulative CO 2 efflux was as much as 40% greater when blade rotation of 216 rpm and a lowered rear shield was compared to blade rotation of 122 rpm and raised shield. This preliminary work suggests that adjusting rotary tiller settings could help reduce CO 2 efflux close to that of undisturbed soil, thereby helping to conserve soil carbon in tropical environments.
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