Physical and environmental characteristics of the compost barn system and its effects on the physical integrity, reproduction and milk production of dairy cattle: a scoping review

Compost barn (CB), although recent in Brazil, is increasingly gaining popularity among the intensive breeding systems in the dairy sector. This system promises to offer several advantages to producers and animals: such as providing an environment in which milk production is increased and the physical integrity of cattle is improved, reducing mastitis episodes, and promoting thermal comfort for animals. Another factor that highlights CB concerning other intensive systems is the composting process, generated by the deposition of carbon-rich materials (bedding) with nitrogen sources (urine and feces) from animals. For the full benefits of this composting to be achieved, management, especially of bedding, must be carried out correctly, considering the development requirements of the compost, the use of quality organic material, adequate ventilation, and an ideal rate of animal capacity, so that the generation of heat occurs efficiently. However, there is a general lack of information about the CB system. Hence, there is an increasing need for data surveys of Brazilian regions to compare the diversity of materials used in bedding, assessing energy efficiency and performance over time. Therefore, this bibliographical review addressed the main points of the CB system approach, considering that studies such as this are consistently relevant for rural producers, facilitating decisions regarding the implementation and management of the CB system on their farms.

Least limiting water range, S-index and compressibility of a Udalf under different management systems

Agricultural areas in the region of Turuçu, on the Southeast Hillside in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil present many examples of soil physical degradation. Accordingly, strategies aimed at evaluating and ameliorating the structural quality of soils should be developed to ensure the sustainable use of these areas. This study aimed to evaluate the least limiting water range (LLWR), S-index, compressibility parameters, organic carbon and the organic matter granulometric fractions of a Udalf under different agricultural uses. Soil samples with disturbed and non-disturbed structure from the 0.00 to 0.10 m layer were collected on farms in the Southeast Hillside, Turuçu region, RS, for analyzing soil under: i) conventional system of corn after tobacco crop, (CT); ii) conventional system of corn after native field (CNF), iii) native field (NF) and iv) native area (NA). Both the CT and the CNF systems had a negative influence on the values of bulk density, soil porosity, least limiting water range, compressibility parameters and total organic carbon, coarse fraction carbon and carbon associated with minerals.

Least limiting water range, S-index and compressibility of a Udalf under different management systems

Agricultural areas in the region of Turuçu, on the Southeast Hillside in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil present many examples of soil physical degradation. Accordingly, strategies aimed at evaluating and ameliorating the structural quality of soils should be developed to ensure the sustainable use of these areas. This study aimed to evaluate the least limiting water range (LLWR), S-index, compressibility parameters, organic carbon and the organic matter granulometric fractions of a Udalf under different agricultural uses. Soil samples with disturbed and non-disturbed structure from the 0.00 to 0.10 m layer were collected on farms in the Southeast Hillside, Turuçu region, RS, for analyzing soil under: i) conventional system of corn after tobacco crop, (CT); ii) conventional system of corn after native field (CNF), iii) native field (NF) and iv) native area (NA). Both the CT and the CNF systems had a negative influence on the values of bulk density, soil porosity, least limiting water range, compressibility parameters and total organic carbon, coarse fraction carbon and carbon associated with minerals.(AU)

Estoque de carbono orgânico total e fracionamento granulométrico da matéria orgânica em sistemas de uso do solo no cerrado / Total organic carbon stock and granulometric fractioning of organic matter in soil use systems in cerrado

Os sistemas de uso do solo apresentam potencial de alterar os estoques de carbono orgânico, podendo permanecer estáveis, aumentar ou diminuir em relação à área sem interferência antrópica. Com isso, objetivou-se quantificar e comparar os estoques de carbono orgânico total, carbono orgânico associado aos minerais, carbono orgânico particulado e calcular o índice de manejo de carbono em solos cultivados sob diferentes sistemas de uso. Os tratamentos foram representados por seis sistemas de uso do solo: vegetação nativa de cerrado, seringueira solteira, seringueira consorciada com abacaxi, pastagem de Brachiaria sp. com 30 anos, pastagem de Brachiaria sp. com três anos e sistema de plantio convencional.  Em cada sistema foram coletadas amostras de solo nas camadas de 0-10, 10-20 e 20-30 cm para avaliar os teores e estoques de carbono no solo, e amostras indeformadas com anéis volumétricos para estimar a densidade do solo. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise pelo teste de Scott-Knott (p≤0,05). O carbono orgânico total e as frações granulométricas da matéria orgânica mostraram ser um atributo promissor para avaliação da qualidade do solo. O carbono orgânico total, carbono orgânico particulado e carbono orgânico associado aos minerais foram superiores para vegetação nativa, pastagem de Brachiaria sp. 30 anos, seguidos pelos sistemas com seringueira. O índice de manejo de carbono...

Soil use systems have the potential to alter organic carbon stocks and may remain stable, increase, or decrease relative to the area without anthropogenic interference. The objective of this study was to quantify and compare the total organic carbon stock, organic carbon associated with minerals, particulate organic carbon, and calculate the carbon management index in soils grown under different systems of use. The treatments were represented by six systems of soil use: native vegetation of cerrado, single rubber tree, rubber tree with pineapple, Brachiaria sp. with 30 years, a pasture of Brachiaria sp. with three years, and conventional planting system. In each system, soil samples were collected in the 0-10, 10-20 and 20-30 cm layers to evaluate soil carbon contents and stocks, and undisturbed samples with volumetric rings to estimate soil density. The results were analyzed by Scott-Knott test (p≤0.05). The total organic carbon and the grain size fractions of the organic matter showed to be a promising attribute for soil quality evaluation. Total organic carbon, particulate organic carbon, and organic carbon associated with minerals were higher for native vegetation, Brachiaria sp. 30 years, followed by systems with rubber trees. The calculated carbon management index indicated that the use of rubber trees adds benefits to the soil in the medium and long term, followed by the...

Estoque de carbono orgânico total e fracionamento granulométrico da matéria orgânica em sistemas de uso do solo no cerrado / Total organic carbon stock and granulometric fractioning of organic matter in soil use systems in cerrado

Os sistemas de uso do solo apresentam potencial de alterar os estoques de carbono orgânico, podendo permanecer estáveis, aumentar ou diminuir em relação à área sem interferência antrópica. Com isso, objetivou-se quantificar e comparar os estoques de carbono orgânico total, carbono orgânico associado aos minerais, carbono orgânico particulado e calcular o índice de manejo de carbono em solos cultivados sob diferentes sistemas de uso. Os tratamentos foram representados por seis sistemas de uso do solo: vegetação nativa de cerrado, seringueira solteira, seringueira consorciada com abacaxi, pastagem de Brachiaria sp. com 30 anos, pastagem de Brachiaria sp. com três anos e sistema de plantio convencional.  Em cada sistema foram coletadas amostras de solo nas camadas de 0-10, 10-20 e 20-30 cm para avaliar os teores e estoques de carbono no solo, e amostras indeformadas com anéis volumétricos para estimar a densidade do solo. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise pelo teste de Scott-Knott (p≤0,05). O carbono orgânico total e as frações granulométricas da matéria orgânica mostraram ser um atributo promissor para avaliação da qualidade do solo. O carbono orgânico total, carbono orgânico particulado e carbono orgânico associado aos minerais foram superiores para vegetação nativa, pastagem de Brachiaria sp. 30 anos, seguidos pelos sistemas com seringueira. O índice de manejo de carbono...(AU)

Soil use systems have the potential to alter organic carbon stocks and may remain stable, increase, or decrease relative to the area without anthropogenic interference. The objective of this study was to quantify and compare the total organic carbon stock, organic carbon associated with minerals, particulate organic carbon, and calculate the carbon management index in soils grown under different systems of use. The treatments were represented by six systems of soil use: native vegetation of cerrado, single rubber tree, rubber tree with pineapple, Brachiaria sp. with 30 years, a pasture of Brachiaria sp. with three years, and conventional planting system. In each system, soil samples were collected in the 0-10, 10-20 and 20-30 cm layers to evaluate soil carbon contents and stocks, and undisturbed samples with volumetric rings to estimate soil density. The results were analyzed by Scott-Knott test (p≤0.05). The total organic carbon and the grain size fractions of the organic matter showed to be a promising attribute for soil quality evaluation. Total organic carbon, particulate organic carbon, and organic carbon associated with minerals were higher for native vegetation, Brachiaria sp. 30 years, followed by systems with rubber trees. The calculated carbon management index indicated that the use of rubber trees adds benefits to the soil in the medium and long term, followed by the...(AU)

Soil carbon stock and humification in pastures under different levels of intensification in Brazil

Intensive management of tropical pastures has shown potential for greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation due to high forage production and C accumulation in the soil. This study aimed to evaluate different pasture management options in relation to their effect on soil C stocks and soil organic matter (SOM) humification. Pastures in four beef cattle production systems were assessed: intensive and irrigated pasture with high stocking rate (IHS); dryland pasture with high stocking rate (DHS); dryland pasture with moderate stocking rate (DMS); degraded pasture (DP). The soil under the native forest was also evaluated and soil carbon stocks from the 0-100 and 0-30 cm layers were assessed. Carbon stocks (0-100 cm) ranged from 99.88 to 142.33 Mg ha1 in DP and DMS, respectively and were, respectively, 14 % and 24 % higher compared to the soil under the forest and indicate the capacity of adequately managed tropical pastures to mitigate GHG emissions from livestock production. Humification indexes indicated the presence of more labile C in pastures with greater C accumulation (DHS and DMS), mainly in the upper soil layers, indicating recent C accumulation resulting from correct management. However, more labile C can be easily lost to the atmosphere as CO2, depending on pasture management. Low C stocks associated with high humification indexes are characteristics of DP in which significant amounts of SOM are lost. It is necessary to develop technologies to improve C sequestration in IHS and results indicate the importance of quantifying C stocks in association with C stability.

Soil carbon stock and humification in pastures under different levels of intensification in Brazil

Intensive management of tropical pastures has shown potential for greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation due to high forage production and C accumulation in the soil. This study aimed to evaluate different pasture management options in relation to their effect on soil C stocks and soil organic matter (SOM) humification. Pastures in four beef cattle production systems were assessed: intensive and irrigated pasture with high stocking rate (IHS); dryland pasture with high stocking rate (DHS); dryland pasture with moderate stocking rate (DMS); degraded pasture (DP). The soil under the native forest was also evaluated and soil carbon stocks from the 0-100 and 0-30 cm layers were assessed. Carbon stocks (0-100 cm) ranged from 99.88 to 142.33 Mg ha1 in DP and DMS, respectively and were, respectively, 14 % and 24 % higher compared to the soil under the forest and indicate the capacity of adequately managed tropical pastures to mitigate GHG emissions from livestock production. Humification indexes indicated the presence of more labile C in pastures with greater C accumulation (DHS and DMS), mainly in the upper soil layers, indicating recent C accumulation resulting from correct management. However, more labile C can be easily lost to the atmosphere as CO2, depending on pasture management. Low C stocks associated with high humification indexes are characteristics of DP in which significant amounts of SOM are lost. It is necessary to develop technologies to improve C sequestration in IHS and results indicate the importance of quantifying C stocks in association with C stability.(AU)

Carbon indices to assess quality of management systems in a Subtropical Acrisol

Management systems to improve soil quality are essential for agricultural and environmental sustainability. We assessed the quality of soil management systems applied to a subtropical Acrisol in terms of the carbon management index (CMI), the stratification ratio for total organic carbon (SR-TOC) and light fraction of organic matter (SR-LF). In addition, we examined their relationship to chemical, physical and biological soil quality indicators, as well as to maize yield. The study was conducted on a long-term experiment (18 years) in southern Brazil involving two different systems [no tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT)], two cropping systems [black oat/maize (O/M) and black oat + vetch/maize + cowpea (OV/MC)] and two nitrogen fertilizer rates for maize (0 and 180 kg ha–1). Based on the three indices, the best managements for soil quality comprised NT (50-212 % better than CT), legume cover crops (10-47 % better than O/M) and N fertilization (8-33 % better than no fertilizer). All three indices proved accurate to assess the impact of soil management systems, especially SR-LF, which showed increased sensitivity and close relationships with chemical, physical and biological soil quality indicators. On the other hand, a poor relationship was observed between soil C indices and maize yield, which was improved only by legume cover crops and N fertilization. The results showed that the association of no-till system to an abundant supply of crop residues is key to ensure high soil quality and crop yields in humid subtropical regions.

Carbon indices to assess quality of management systems in a Subtropical Acrisol

Management systems to improve soil quality are essential for agricultural and environmental sustainability. We assessed the quality of soil management systems applied to a subtropical Acrisol in terms of the carbon management index (CMI), the stratification ratio for total organic carbon (SR-TOC) and light fraction of organic matter (SR-LF). In addition, we examined their relationship to chemical, physical and biological soil quality indicators, as well as to maize yield. The study was conducted on a long-term experiment (18 years) in southern Brazil involving two different systems [no tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT)], two cropping systems [black oat/maize (O/M) and black oat + vetch/maize + cowpea (OV/MC)] and two nitrogen fertilizer rates for maize (0 and 180 kg ha–1). Based on the three indices, the best managements for soil quality comprised NT (50-212 % better than CT), legume cover crops (10-47 % better than O/M) and N fertilization (8-33 % better than no fertilizer). All three indices proved accurate to assess the impact of soil management systems, especially SR-LF, which showed increased sensitivity and close relationships with chemical, physical and biological soil quality indicators. On the other hand, a poor relationship was observed between soil C indices and maize yield, which was improved only by legume cover crops and N fertilization. The results showed that the association of no-till system to an abundant supply of crop residues is key to ensure high soil quality and crop yields in humid subtropical regions.(AU)

Quantity and quality of soil organic matter as a sustainability index under different land uses in Eastern Amazon

Soil organic matter (SOM), which influences chemical, physical and biological soil attributes, is the main form of C found in the soil which can also be used as a soil sustainability index. The aim of this study was to use the quantity and quality of SOM as an indicator to determine the sustainability of different land uses (native vegetation, secondary vegetation, fruit orchards, horticultural areas, degraded pasture, improved pasture, and fields with annual crops) in the eastern Amazon. Improved pasture had higher soil C stock than the other land uses and was similar to the native vegetation, and also presented the highest quantity of C in a stable form in the soil (fraction < 53 μm). According to the C management index, improved pasture is the most similar in use to native vegetation. Changes in land use reduced the soil microbial C content, although the more conservationist systems (fruit orchards, secondary vegetation, and improved pasture) had contents similar to those of the native vegetation. The highest soil microbial quotients were found in fruit orchards and horticultural areas. Well-managed pastures were effective in accumulating C as stable forms in the soil, which demonstrates the sustainability of this land use in the region studied.

Quantity and quality of soil organic matter as a sustainability index under different land uses in Eastern Amazon

Soil organic matter (SOM), which influences chemical, physical and biological soil attributes, is the main form of C found in the soil which can also be used as a soil sustainability index. The aim of this study was to use the quantity and quality of SOM as an indicator to determine the sustainability of different land uses (native vegetation, secondary vegetation, fruit orchards, horticultural areas, degraded pasture, improved pasture, and fields with annual crops) in the eastern Amazon. Improved pasture had higher soil C stock than the other land uses and was similar to the native vegetation, and also presented the highest quantity of C in a stable form in the soil (fraction < 53 μm). According to the C management index, improved pasture is the most similar in use to native vegetation. Changes in land use reduced the soil microbial C content, although the more conservationist systems (fruit orchards, secondary vegetation, and improved pasture) had contents similar to those of the native vegetation. The highest soil microbial quotients were found in fruit orchards and horticultural areas. Well-managed pastures were effective in accumulating C as stable forms in the soil, which demonstrates the sustainability of this land use in the region studied.(AU)

Soil nutrient content and plant phytosociology in agroforestrysystems of the Rio de Janeiro State highlands, Brazil / Teores de nutrientes do solo e fitossociologia em sistemas agroflorestais na Região Serrana, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

This study aimed to evaluate soil fertility and the horizontal structure of threedemonstration units of Agroforestry Systems (ASs), Sapucaia, RJ, Brazil. Twenty-four plots (25 m2) weredelineated in each AS. Soil fertility was evaluated through pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The estimated phytosociological parameters were frequency, density, dominance,importance value and the diversity index of Shannon. Magnesium was more pronounced in ASas with more management intensity due to the incorporation of banana biomass (AS 1 and 2). The AS 1 highlights were for banana and coffee (about 45% IV), AS 2 banana and physic nuts (about 50% IV) and AS 3 cassava and ‘fumo-bravo (VI=52.2%). This study suggests that diversity contributes to the maintenance of ecosystem services on a local scale, mainly for the conservation and maintenance of soil fertility, as well asto increase food security in the property. The use of physic nuts has not shown to be a favorable option as asource of energy for the farm studied. However, it can contribute to the increase of local value added.These responses support the importance of ASs for the establishment of more sustainable production models.(AU)

Este estudo objetivou avaliar a fertilidade do solo e a estrutura horizontal de três unidades demonstrativas de Sistemas Agroflorestais (SAFs), Sapucaia, RJ, Brasil. Foram demarcadas vinte e quatroparcelas (25 m2) em cada SAF. A fertilidade do solo foi avaliada através do pH, carbono orgânico, nitrogêniototal, fósforo e potássio. Os parâmetros fitossociológicos estimados foram frequência, densidade, dominância, valor de importância e o índice de diversidade de Shannon. O magnésio foi mais pronunciadonos SAFs 1 e 2, com mais intensidade de manejo, devido à incorporação de biomassa da bananeira. Os destaques no SAF 1 foram para banana e café (cerca de 45% do VI); no SAF 2, banana e pinhão-manso (cerca de 50% do VI); e, no SAF 3, mandioca e fumo-bravo (VI=52,2%). Este estudo sugere que adiversidade contribui para a manutenção dos serviços ecossistêmicos em escala local, principalmente para aconservação e manutenção da fertilidade do solo, bem como para aumentar a segurança alimentar. O usodo pinhão-manso não demonstrou uma opção favorável como fonte de energia; no entanto, pode contribuir para o aumento do valor agregado local. Essas respostas sustentam a importância dos SAFs para oestabelecimento de modelos de produção mais sustentáveis.(AU)

Soil nutrient content and plant phytosociology in agroforestrysystems of the Rio de Janeiro State highlands, Brazil / Teores de nutrientes do solo e fitossociologia em sistemas agroflorestais na Região Serrana, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

This study aimed to evaluate soil fertility and the horizontal structure of threedemonstration units of Agroforestry Systems (ASs), Sapucaia, RJ, Brazil. Twenty-four plots (25 m2) weredelineated in each AS. Soil fertility was evaluated through pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The estimated phytosociological parameters were frequency, density, dominance,importance value and the diversity index of Shannon. Magnesium was more pronounced in ASas with more management intensity due to the incorporation of banana biomass (AS 1 and 2). The AS 1 highlights were for banana and coffee (about 45% IV), AS 2 banana and physic nuts (about 50% IV) and AS 3 cassava and ‘fumo-bravo’ (VI=52.2%). This study suggests that diversity contributes to the maintenance of ecosystem services on a local scale, mainly for the conservation and maintenance of soil fertility, as well asto increase food security in the property. The use of physic nuts has not shown to be a favorable option as asource of energy for the farm studied. However, it can contribute to the increase of local value added.These responses support the importance of ASs for the establishment of more sustainable production models.

Este estudo objetivou avaliar a fertilidade do solo e a estrutura horizontal de três unidades demonstrativas de Sistemas Agroflorestais (SAFs), Sapucaia, RJ, Brasil. Foram demarcadas vinte e quatroparcelas (25 m2) em cada SAF. A fertilidade do solo foi avaliada através do pH, carbono orgânico, nitrogêniototal, fósforo e potássio. Os parâmetros fitossociológicos estimados foram frequência, densidade, dominância, valor de importância e o índice de diversidade de Shannon. O magnésio foi mais pronunciadonos SAFs 1 e 2, com mais intensidade de manejo, devido à incorporação de biomassa da bananeira. Os destaques no SAF 1 foram para banana e café (cerca de 45% do VI); no SAF 2, banana e pinhão-manso (cerca de 50% do VI); e, no SAF 3, mandioca e fumo-bravo (VI=52,2%). Este estudo sugere que adiversidade contribui para a manutenção dos serviços ecossistêmicos em escala local, principalmente para aconservação e manutenção da fertilidade do solo, bem como para aumentar a segurança alimentar. O usodo pinhão-manso não demonstrou uma opção favorável como fonte de energia; no entanto, pode contribuir para o aumento do valor agregado local. Essas respostas sustentam a importância dos SAFs para oestabelecimento de modelos de produção mais sustentáveis.

Fractions of soil organic matter in the vineyards of altitude regions in Santa Catarina / Compartimentos da matéria orgânica do solo em vinhedos altomontanos em Santa Catarina

The implementation of agricultural systems such as viticulture can quantitatively and qualitatively affect the contents of soil organic matter (SOM). These changes may modify the edaphic features of the soil as well as the soil quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical and physical fraction of SOMand to analyze changes in the carbon stock and C management index in areas of implanted vineyards in altitude regions of Santa Catarina. Four regions were selected: Region I (Urubici); Region II (San Joaquim); Region III (Campos Novos) and Region IV (Água Doce). In each region, we selected vineyards implanted between 2001 and 2005 as well as surrounding forested areas. Disturbed and undisturbed samples were collected from the 0-5, 5-10, and 10-20 cm layers of the soil. Samples were prepared in the laboratory to obtain air-dried soft soil, which was then used for the analysis of several parameters, namely total organic carbon (TOC), carbon stock,and chemical fractionation of the soil. The chemical fractionation was then used to determine carbon content in the fulvic acid fraction (C-FAF), humic acid fraction (C-HAF), and humin fraction (C-HUM). We also analyzed particle size, quantified the levels of particulate carbon (COp) and carbon associated with clay and silt (COam), and calculated the carbon management index (CMI). We evaluated normality and homogeneity for all data. The resultswere evaluated with an analysis of variance and subsequent F-test. Mean values were compared using a5% Students t-test and subsequently submitted to a Tukeys test. The highest TOC levels were observedin Region II in the 0-5 cm layer in both vineyard and forested areas. Vineyard areas exhibited lowervalues of TOC, Cop, and COam compared to forested areas indicating that the management adopted inthese areas contributed to the reduction of these fractions. Forested areas exhibited a higher proportionof Cop compared to vineyard areas...(AU)

A implantação de sistemas agrícolas como a viticultura pode afetar quantitativamente e qualitativamente o conteúdo de matéria orgânica no solo (MOS). Estas transformações podem modificar os atributos edáficos do solo, bem como sua qualidade. Assim, o objetivo desse estudo foi de avaliar a compartimentalização da MOS, com o emprego do fracionamento químico e físico da MOS e verificar as mudanças no estoque de carbono e no índice de manejo de C em áreas de vinhedos implantados nas regiões de altitude de SC. Foram selecionadas quatro regiões de altitude: Região I (Urubici); Região II (São Joaquim); Região III (Campos Novos); Região IV (Água Doce). Em cada região foram selecionadas áreas de vinhedos implantados entre os anos de 2001 e 2005 e também áreas de floresta. Foram coletadas amostras deformadas e indeformadas nas camadas de 0-5; 5-10;10-20 cm. As amostras foram preparadas em laboratório para obtenção da terra fina seca ao ar, material este que foi utilizado para realizar as análises de carbono orgânico total (COT), o estoque de carbono no solo, fracionamento químico, determinando-se os teores de carbono na fração ácido fúlvico (C-FAF), fração ácido húmico (C-FAH) e fração humina (C-HUM) e granulométrico, quantificando-se os teores de carbono particulado (COp) e o associado a argila e silte (COam), além do cálculo do índice de manejo do carbono. Para todos os dados foi realizada a avaliação da normalidade e homogeneidade. Os resultados foram submetidosà análise de variância com aplicação do teste F e os valores médios comparados entre si pelo teste ta 5%, e, posteriormente, submetidos ao teste de Tukey. Os maiores teores de COT foram observadosna região II, na camada de 0-5cm, tanto nas áreas dos vinhedos como na área de floresta. As áreas dosvinhedos apresentaram menores valores de COT, COp e COam quando comparadas as de floresta o queindica que o manejo adotado nessas áreas está contribuindo para a redução dessas frações...(AU)

Potential impacts of using sewage sludge biochar on the growth of plant forest seedlings / Potenciais impactos do uso de biocarvão de lodo de esgoto no crescimento de mudas de especies florestais

Sewage sludge has long been successfully used in the production of nursery plants; however, some restriction may apply due to its high pathogenic characteristics. The process of charring the organic waste significantly reduces that undesired component and may be as effective as the non-charred residue. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sewage sludge biochar on the growth and morphological traits of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus grandis L.) seedlings, and compare results with those observed when using uncharred sewage sludge. Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design, in a 2 x 2 factorial scheme, with four replications. Charred and non-charred sewage sludge were tested with and without NPK addition. A control treatment was also evaluated. Ten weeks old eucalyptus seedlings were transferred to the pots and grew for eight weeks. Chlorophyll content, plant height and stem diameter were measured at 0, 30 and 60 days after transplant. Shoot and root biomass were measured after plant harvest. Dickson Quality Index was calculated to evaluate the overall quality of seedlings. Biochar was effective in improving the seedlings quality, and had similar effects as the non-charred waste. Therefore, sewage sludge biochar has the potential to improve the process of production of forest species seedlings and further reduce the environmental risks associated with the use of non-charred sewage sludge.

O lodo de esgoto tem sido usado com sucesso há muito tempo na produção de mudas de espécies florestais em viveiro. Contudo, algumas restrições se aplicam devido às suas características patogênicas. O processo de carbonização desse resíduo orgânico reduz significativamente esse componente, resultando num material que pode ser tão efetivo quanto a matéria prima original. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito do biocarvão de lodo de esgoto no crescimento e nos parâmetros morfológicos de mudas de eucalipto (Eucalyptus grandis L.), e comparar os resultados com aqueles observados para as mudas tratadas com lodo de esgoto. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2, com quatro repetições. O lodo de esgoto, carbonizado e não carbonizado, foi testado com e sem a adição de adubação NPK. Um tratamento controle foi avaliado também. Mudas de eucalipto com 10 semanas foram transferidas para vasos contendo os tratamentos, onde cresceram por 60 dias. Teor de clorofila, altura da planta e diâmetro do coleto foram avaliados aos 0, 30 e 60 dias. A biomassa da parte aérea e da raiz foi avaliada após a colheita. O índice de qualidade de Dickson foi calculado para avaliar a qualidade geral das mudas. O biocarvão foi eficiente em melhorar a qualidade das mudas e seu efeito foi similar ao do lodo de esgoto. Portanto, esse biocarvão tem o potencial de melhorar o processo de produção de mudas de espécies florestais em viveiro, e pode ainda reduzir os riscos ambientais associados ao uso de lodo de esgoto.

Potential impacts of using sewage sludge biochar on the growth of plant forest seedlings / Potenciais impactos do uso de biocarvão de lodo de esgoto no crescimento de mudas de especies florestais

Sewage sludge has long been successfully used in the production of nursery plants; however, some restriction may apply due to its high pathogenic characteristics. The process of charring the organic waste significantly reduces that undesired component and may be as effective as the non-charred residue. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sewage sludge biochar on the growth and morphological traits of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus grandis L.) seedlings, and compare results with those observed when using uncharred sewage sludge. Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design, in a 2 x 2 factorial scheme, with four replications. Charred and non-charred sewage sludge were tested with and without NPK addition. A control treatment was also evaluated. Ten weeks old eucalyptus seedlings were transferred to the pots and grew for eight weeks. Chlorophyll content, plant height and stem diameter were measured at 0, 30 and 60 days after transplant. Shoot and root biomass were measured after plant harvest. Dickson Quality Index was calculated to evaluate the overall quality of seedlings. Biochar was effective in improving the seedlings quality, and had similar effects as the non-charred waste. Therefore, sewage sludge biochar has the potential to improve the process of production of forest species seedlings and further reduce the environmental risks associated with the use of non-charred sewage sludge.(AU)

O lodo de esgoto tem sido usado com sucesso há muito tempo na produção de mudas de espécies florestais em viveiro. Contudo, algumas restrições se aplicam devido às suas características patogênicas. O processo de carbonização desse resíduo orgânico reduz significativamente esse componente, resultando num material que pode ser tão efetivo quanto a matéria prima original. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito do biocarvão de lodo de esgoto no crescimento e nos parâmetros morfológicos de mudas de eucalipto (Eucalyptus grandis L.), e comparar os resultados com aqueles observados para as mudas tratadas com lodo de esgoto. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 2, com quatro repetições. O lodo de esgoto, carbonizado e não carbonizado, foi testado com e sem a adição de adubação NPK. Um tratamento controle foi avaliado também. Mudas de eucalipto com 10 semanas foram transferidas para vasos contendo os tratamentos, onde cresceram por 60 dias. Teor de clorofila, altura da planta e diâmetro do coleto foram avaliados aos 0, 30 e 60 dias. A biomassa da parte aérea e da raiz foi avaliada após a colheita. O índice de qualidade de Dickson foi calculado para avaliar a qualidade geral das mudas. O biocarvão foi eficiente em melhorar a qualidade das mudas e seu efeito foi similar ao do lodo de esgoto. Portanto, esse biocarvão tem o potencial de melhorar o processo de produção de mudas de espécies florestais em viveiro, e pode ainda reduzir os riscos ambientais associados ao uso de lodo de esgoto.(AU)

Relationships between labile soil organic carbon fractions under different soil management systems

The study of labile carbon fractions (LCF) provides an understanding of the behavior of soil organic matter (SOM) under different soil management systems and cover crops. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of different soil management systems with respect to tillage, cover crop and phosphate fertilization on the amount of the LCF of SOM. Treatments consisted of conventional tillage (CT) and no-tillage (NT) with millet as the cover crop and a no-tillage system with velvet bean at two phosphorus dosages. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for organic carbon (OC), C oxidizable by KMnO4 (C-KMnO4), particulate OC (POC), microbial biomass carbon and light SOM in the 0.0-0.05, 0.05-0.10 and 0.10-0.20 m soil layers. The Carbon Management Index (CMI) was calculated to evaluate the impacts of soil management treatments on the quality of the SOM. The different LCFs are sensitive to different soil management systems, and there are significant correlations between them. C-KMnO4 is considered the best indicator of OC carbon lability. In the soil surface layers, the CT reduced the carbon content in all of the labile fractions of the SOM. The use of phosphorus led to the accumulation of OC and carbon in the different soil fractions regardless of the tillage system or cover crop. The application of phosphate fertilizer improved the ability of the NTsystem to promote soil quality, as assessed by the CMI.

Relationships between labile soil organic carbon fractions under different soil management systems

The study of labile carbon fractions (LCF) provides an understanding of the behavior of soil organic matter (SOM) under different soil management systems and cover crops. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of different soil management systems with respect to tillage, cover crop and phosphate fertilization on the amount of the LCF of SOM. Treatments consisted of conventional tillage (CT) and no-tillage (NT) with millet as the cover crop and a no-tillage system with velvet bean at two phosphorus dosages. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for organic carbon (OC), C oxidizable by KMnO4 (C-KMnO4), particulate OC (POC), microbial biomass carbon and light SOM in the 0.0-0.05, 0.05-0.10 and 0.10-0.20 m soil layers. The Carbon Management Index (CMI) was calculated to evaluate the impacts of soil management treatments on the quality of the SOM. The different LCFs are sensitive to different soil management systems, and there are significant correlations between them. C-KMnO4 is considered the best indicator of OC carbon lability. In the soil surface layers, the CT reduced the carbon content in all of the labile fractions of the SOM. The use of phosphorus led to the accumulation of OC and carbon in the different soil fractions regardless of the tillage system or cover crop. The application of phosphate fertilizer improved the ability of the NTsystem to promote soil quality, as assessed by the CMI.(AU)

Identifying forest ecosystem regions for agricultural use and conservation

Balancing agricultural needs with the need to protect biodiverse environments presents a challenge to forestry management. An imbalance in resource production and ecosystem regulation often leads to degradation or deforestation such as when excessive cultivation damages forest biodiversity. Lack of information on geospatial biodiversity may hamper forest ecosystems. In particular, this may be an issue in areas where there is a strong need to reassign land to food production. It is essential to identify and protect those parts of the forest that are key to its preservation. This paper presents a strategy for choosing suitable areas for agricultural management based on a geospatial variation of Shannon's vegetation diversity index (SHDI). This index offers a method for selecting areas with low levels of biodiversity and carbon stock accumulation ability, thereby reducing the negative environmental impact of converting forest land to agricultural use. The natural forest ecosystem of the controversial 1997 Ex-Mega Rice Project (EMRP) in Indonesia is used as an example. Results showed that the geospatial pattern of biodiversity can be accurately derived using kriging analysis and then effectively applied to the delineation of agricultural production areas using an ecological threshold of SHDI. A prediction model that integrates a number of species and families and average annual rainfall was developed by principal component regression (PCR) to obtain a geospatial distribution map of biodiversity. Species richness was found to be an appropriate indicator of SHDI and able to assist in the identification of areas for agricultural use and natural forest management.

Identifying forest ecosystem regions for agricultural use and conservation

Balancing agricultural needs with the need to protect biodiverse environments presents a challenge to forestry management. An imbalance in resource production and ecosystem regulation often leads to degradation or deforestation such as when excessive cultivation damages forest biodiversity. Lack of information on geospatial biodiversity may hamper forest ecosystems. In particular, this may be an issue in areas where there is a strong need to reassign land to food production. It is essential to identify and protect those parts of the forest that are key to its preservation. This paper presents a strategy for choosing suitable areas for agricultural management based on a geospatial variation of Shannon's vegetation diversity index (SHDI). This index offers a method for selecting areas with low levels of biodiversity and carbon stock accumulation ability, thereby reducing the negative environmental impact of converting forest land to agricultural use. The natural forest ecosystem of the controversial 1997 Ex-Mega Rice Project (EMRP) in Indonesia is used as an example. Results showed that the geospatial pattern of biodiversity can be accurately derived using kriging analysis and then effectively applied to the delineation of agricultural production areas using an ecological threshold of SHDI. A prediction model that integrates a number of species and families and average annual rainfall was developed by principal component regression (PCR) to obtain a geospatial distribution map of biodiversity. Species richness was found to be an appropriate indicator of SHDI and able to assist in the identification of areas for agricultural use and natural forest management.(AU)