Biological dynamics of no-tillage soils in the western region of Paraná

This study investigates soil dynamics on farms in the western region of Paraná, Brazil, highlighting the importance of biological parameters in agriculture. In particular, focusing on the interaction of management practices with soil biodiversity and biological functions, the aim is to understand and promote sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. To do this, we collected soil samples from 15 farms close to Toledo, Paraná, Brazil. These samples were then analyzed to determine biological and physicochemical parameters using techniques such as carbon and nitrogen microbial biomass, metabolic coefficient, basal respiration, bacterial and fungal biomass, and length of the hyphae. The most contrasting soils were evaluated for physicochemical composition and metagenomic analyses. The results showed significant differences in biological parameters between 2020 and 2021, including fungal biomass, hyphae length, and soil basal respiration. Statistical analyzes revealed strong relationships between biological variables, notably the correlation between fungal hyphae and total nitrogen. Climate changes and management practices appear to influence the microbial composition and biological functions of the soil over the years. Soil P9 stood out with superior biological activity and richer microbial diversity, contrasting with soil P13. These differences reflect the influence of management and climatic conditions on soil composition and biological functions. The microbial comparison of the soils emphasized the need for continuous and careful agricultural management, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and ecological functionality of the soil for agricultural sustainability. So, the study underscores the relevance of considering soil biological parameters, in addition to physicochemical aspects, to optimize soil health and productivity.