Farming intensity indirectly reduces crop yield through negative effects on agrobiodiversity and key ecological functions

Farming intensity and landscape heterogeneity influence agrobiodiversity associated ecological functions. The relative contributions of these agroecosystem components to agricultural production remain unclear because inter-relations weather-dependant variations. Using a structural equation modelling approach, we estimated direct indirect farming (soil management, pesticide use fertilisation) (of semi-natural covers crop mosaic) cereal production, in 54 fields (mostly wheat), two years (24 30 fields). Indirect effects were evaluated through (carabid plant communities) functions (pollination pest control). In 2016, had the largest positive effect on yield, followed by (74% impact) However, benefits halved due negative effects, as negatively affected within-field biodiversity Overall, equal net yields, while mosaic enhanced biodiversity. 2017, neither higher nor could lift which suffered from unfavourable meteorological conditions. Semi-natural habitats supported agrobiodiversity. Our study suggests that reduction combined with can enhance towards production. seem play an essential role face climatic events, supporting potential resilience functioning.