Neltuma laevigata and its influence on soil fertility in the Valle del Mezquital, Hidalgo, Mexico

Objective: The physicochemical characteristics of soil fertility, based on the influence of mesquite (Neltumalaevigata) were evaluated in an agricultural community of Ixmiquilpan, Hidalgo, Mexico.Design/Methodology/Approach: Based on NOM-021-SEMARNAT-2000, physical and chemicalparameters were evaluated. Nine samples were taken from each of the four sites with and without mesquite(n=36). The relationship between soil fertility and the presence or absence of mesquite mesquite was determinedwith a paired t- test (p<0.05).Results: A significant difference in organic matter content was recorded. Humic substances and acids arehigher in soils with natural vegetation with mesquite than in soils with natural vegetation without mesquite.Study Limitations/Implications: The study does not consider changes in microbiological biodiversity or theinfluence of other plant species in organic matter content and humic substances.Findings/Conclusions: Mesquite promotes soil fertility in the area; consequently, proposing managementstrategies for this species is fundamental in the Valle del Mezquital.