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

Reference	D15329
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
Department	Soil Environmental and Ecological Sci
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	175,668
Status	Completed
Type	Research Grant
Start date	01/12/2001
End date	01/12/2004
Duration	36 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 Topics	X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

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