Population dynamics of epigeic Collembola in arable fields: The importance of hedgerow proximity and crop type

Citation

Goulson D (1997) Population dynamics of epigeic Collembola in arable fields: The importance of hedgerow proximity and crop type. Pedobiologia, 41 (1-3), pp. 110-114.

Abstract
During spring 1996, the temporal and spatial dynamics of epigeic Collembola, in southern UK, were studied in fields planted with spring barley and vining peas. Composition of the fauna varied according to crop type and position within the field. Proximity of a hedgerow had a major impact upon population dynamics, with more species and a greater overall abundance near field eedges. It was the major factor governing the abundance of Isotomurus palustris and Bourletiella hortensis, whereas crop type was most imporant in determining numbers of Jeannenotia stachi, Sminthurus viridis, S. elegans and Lepidocyrtus spp. Temporal variation in species abundance was also clear: abundances of J. stachi, B. hortensis, I, plustris and Lepidocyrtus spp. decreased through the sampling period while those of S. viridis and Isotoma viridis increased. Overall, the management practices associated with the two crops were an important determinant of collembolan abundance but not of species composition.

Keywords
Collembola; arable fields; population dynamics; cultivation; pesticide effects

Journal
Pedobiologia: Volume 41, Issue 1-3