Community structure of epigeic arthropods in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) soils

Aim of study: The study epigeic arthropods provides information on how ecosystems respond to different management practices. Changes in the structure groups reflect changes ecological status habitats. We assessed influence semi-natural habitats and environmental variables dispersion groups.
 Area Southwestern part Slovakia
 Material methods: Between 2018 2020, six barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) fields were selected each year. Five pitfall traps placed field (soil pH moisture, light conditions, soil N, P, K) analysed. collected 8,730 individuals belonging 14 taxonomic groups. sites (habitat, locality name, cadastral area, altitude, coordinates localities) also analysed.
 Main results: observed a decrease average number direction from 1 (semi-natural areas) 5 (barley crop) between July August. was similar May June. affected by soil, phosphorus, potassium nitrogen. In beetles model group, which represented highest individuals, we confirmed an increasing with values K, N moisture. neutral optimal for beetles.
 Research highlights: ecotone rule does not apply during all months, so have contributed new about rule. Agricultural intensification affects arthropods, group important role functioning agricultural ecosystems.