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White clover improves soil aggregation: the mechanism and the impact on soil microbial diversity and N and P leaching

ReferenceD15329
Principal Investigator / Supervisor Professor David Scholefield
Co-Investigators /
Co-Supervisors
Dr Christopher Clegg, Dr Ann Cresswell, Dr Lance Mytton, Dr John Witty
Institution Inst of Grassland and Environmental Res
DepartmentSoil Environmental and Ecological Sci
Funding typeResearch
Value (£) 175,668
StatusCompleted
TypeResearch Grant
Start date 01/12/2001
End date 01/12/2004
Duration36 months

Abstract

Soil structure strongly influences plant growth and agricultural sustainability. We propose a novel experimental system to study the dynamics of aggregate formation. We hypothesise: 1. Clover root contraction (a recent IGER discovery) generates the force necessary to move soil particles; 2. Increased rhizobial polysaccharide production in the presence of clover enhances soil aggregation. We will also determine the impact of improved aggregation on soil microbial diversity and activity, organic matter, and N and P leaching. Analysis of structural changes during aggregation will be made from time-lapse digital photography and from sectioned soil blocks. Information will flow to modelling and precision breeding programmes.

Summary

unavailable
Committee Closed Committee - Agri-food (AF)
Research TopicsX – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research PriorityX – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative X - not in an Initiative
Funding SchemeX – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme
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