Abstract
The samples of two technogenic sediments (MOS, coal ash sediment; MOD, a mixture of ash and natural soil) and two natural soils (MOM, meadow; MOF—forest; both Cambisol Dystric) in the vicinage of the coal ash basin were studied. We evaluated risk element concentrations and select-ed chemical and microbiological parameters to determine their influence on the community structure of Oribatida. High concentrations of various toxic elements, alkaline pH, and low hu-midity negatively affected the abundance of oribatid mites. The microbial indicator values showed that the soil microbial community formed in technogenic sediments could effectively use organic carbon. However, considering the wide C/N ratio of the substrates, the process of soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition was slowed down, and thus nutrients were less available for the mites, which could be among the reasons why we did not find any individual of oribatid mite in MOS. In MOD, however, we found representatives of three species, but only Tectocepheus velatus sarekensis established an abundant community at the highly contaminated site. Anthropogenic pressure resulted in the selection of r-strategists, which became dominant and reduced the whole community’s species’ diversity. Therefore, we consider it a suitable indicator of improper human intervention in the ecosystem.
Highlights
Global changes in climate and land use are affecting the biodiversity of soil arthropods in many ecosystems [1]
Considering the wide C/N ratio of the substrates, the process of soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition was slowed down, and nutrients were less available for the mites, which could be among the reasons why we did not find any individual of oribatid mite in MOS
The results obtained in this study provide additional knowledge of the community structure of oribatid mites in the disturbed soil environment around a coal ash basin
Summary
Global changes in climate and land use are affecting the biodiversity of soil arthropods in many ecosystems [1]. There is increasing interest in their reaction to environmental conditions such as metal pollution because of their essential role in detrital food webs. They are actively involved in the soil decomposition process, increasing soil fertility by recycling nutrients out of dead organic matter. The low reproduction and long life-cycle rates suggest that oribatid mites may be sensitive to environmental change [3]. They are not passive inhabitants of ecosystems; instead, they are strong interactors. Soils around heating power plants are often enriched in metals due to ash blowout of refuse heaps, and toxic metals tend to accumulate in high concentrations in the topsoil near point sources [9]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
