Nematode Trophic Structure in Conventional and No-Tillage Agroecosystems

Authors

  • Robert W. Parmelee
  • Diane G. Alston

Abstract

The effect of tillage intensity on nematode community trophic structure and the role of nematodes in the regulation of decomposition rates in agroecosystems were examined. Conventional (CT) and no-tillage (NT) agroecosystems were sampled monthly for 1 year. Tillage affected nematode trophic structure and total abundance. Monthly mean densities of bacterivorous, fungivorous, and total nematodes were greater in CT than in NT plots. In the summer, however, fungivorous and plant parasitic nematodes were more abundant in NT. No difference was detected for omnivore-predator nematodes. Key words: agroecosystem, bacterivore, decomposition, ecology, fungivore, plant parasite, tillage, trophic structure.

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Published

1986-07-15

Issue

Vol. 18, No. 3 (July 1986)

Section

Articles

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