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Agricultural soil legacy influences multitrophic interactions between crops, their pathogens and pollinators
Jules K Davis1, Anna D Cohen2, Zoe L Getman-Pickering1
1Department of Entomology, Cornell University, NY 14853, USA.
Proceedings. Biological Sciences
|November 29, 2023
Summary
Soil legacy impacts plant interactions, affecting crucial pollinators. Organic farming practices enhance soil health, leading to increased pollinator visits and supporting vital pollination services.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Agronomy
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Soil legacy, referring to the residual effects of past soil management, influences plant interactions with pests and beneficial organisms.
- Plant-pollinator interactions are vital for ecosystem function and food security, yet how soil history affects them remains poorly understood.
- Understanding the soil-pollinator connection is crucial for sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of soil management legacy (organic vs. conventional) on floral resources and plant-associated organisms.
- To evaluate the direct and indirect impacts of soil legacy on wild pollinator visitation.
- To determine how soil legacy influences plant resistance to pathogens and the nutritional quality of floral rewards.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an observational dataset to model relationships between soil legacy, plant health, and pollinator activity.
- Conducted a manipulative experiment to test correlations observed in the dataset.
- Assessed mycorrhizal colonization, pathogen presence (powdery mildew), floral traits, and nutrient content of floral rewards.
Main Results:
- Organic soil legacy enhanced mycorrhizal fungal colonization and plant resistance to powdery mildew.
- Improved plant health under organic legacy led to increased pollinator visitation rates.
- Soil legacy and powdery mildew presence interactively affected floral traits and the nutritional value of floral rewards for pollinators.
Conclusions:
- Soil legacy is a significant, overlooked factor influencing plant-pollinator interactions.
- Sustainable soil management, particularly organic practices, can benefit pollinators by enhancing floral resources and plant health.
- Developing long-term soil management strategies that consider legacy effects can support pollinator populations and pollination services.
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