Nematofauna in Agroecosystems: A Review of their Ecological Significance and Response to Land Use

Abstract

The study of biodiversity in soils, whether used for agricultural purposes or not, represents a promising area for ecological research. Agroecosystems are typically established as monocultures, and the associated practices lead to modifications in the soil microbiota structure, including nematodes. Nematodes are widely distributed organisms in the soil, exhibiting a great diversity of species and feeding habits. Due to differences in life cycles, reproductive rates, and persistence capabilities among members of these groups, nematode communities are being extensively studied using trophic structure and taxonomy data as biological indicators to measure changes resulting from the adoption of ecosystem-specific management practices, such as organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling. Agricultural exploitation tends to favor nematodes that can survive and reproduce in environments subjected to frequent disturbances, particularly certain plant-parasitic nematodes, which, with increasing populations in the soil, can lead to phytosanitary issues. Therefore, the objective of this review is to report on studies conducted regarding the use of nematodes as bioindicators of land use worldwide, as well as research carried out in Brazil, which has vast land areas and diverse agroecosystems. Understanding the soil nematofauna, along with its trophic diversity and how it can be utilized as an indicator of healthy soil use, is of great value for the adoption of management practices and the consequent increase in agricultural production.