The abundance of soil invertebrates in young and mature palm oil plot in relations to soil physical properties: A preliminary study

Abstract

The soil biota is considered the biological engine of the earth and is associated with most of the critical functions of the soil in terms of ecosystem services. The knowledge on the impact of land management and agricultural activities on the abundance and diversity of soil invertebrates is still understudied especially in Malaysia. This study was conducted to investigate the relation of the abundance and diversity of soil invertebrates with the soil physical parameters from two different palm oil plots. Sampling methods of soil invertebrates include pitfall trap and Burlese-Tullgren funnel. Invertebrate’s abundance and diversity were measured and invertebrates were identified according to their morphological characteristics under the dissecting microscope concerning taxonomic keys. A total of 621 individuals were documented from both sites with 408 collected in mature palm oil farms whereas 213 individuals were documented in young palm oil farms. Hymenoptera (67.31 %) is the most dominant invertebrate followed by Orthoptera (12.40 %) and Arachnida (10.14 %). Morphospecies diversity, evenness, and richness are highest in mature palm oil plot with Shannon; 1.54, Evenness; 0.32, and Menhinick; 0.67 respectively. Well-developed canopy, plenty of shelters, and reduced agricultural activities in mature palm oil mainly contributed to ideal soil physical parameters (bulk density; 1.23 (g/cm3) ± 0.02, porosity; 55.03 % ± 2.48, temperature; 35.65°C ± 0.30 and moisture; 34.05 % ± 0.60) produces a comparatively more balanced habitat for a diverse community of soil invertebrates. Because of the roles they play in soil biological processes, soil invertebrates may be used as bioindicators of soil health. This study can be used as a baseline for more extensive research that may be applied in future planning on land management in achieving the nation’s agricultural sustainability.