Work package 2: Soil Functions & Processes

Explore the impact of soil biodiversity on soil functioning and the provision of soil related ecosystem services.

Hypotheses

• Processes related to services or disservices are induced and directed by the presence, the abundance, and the activity of functional groups of soil biota.

• Dynamics and interactions in the soil biota community control ecosystem functions and services

Leaders of the work package: S. Schrader, TI Germany; J. Bengtsson, SLU Sweden

Tasks

Task 2.1: Litter decomposition and carbon cycling

Task 2.2 Analysis of soil structure, aggregation and water infiltration

Task 2.3: Nutrient turnover and effects on crops

Task 2.4: Suppression of plant pathogens and detoxification by soil biota