Soil Macrofauna Community Structure and Integrated Quality Indicators as Measures of Ecosystem Recovery in Reclaimed Agricultural Land in Gharbia Governorate, Egypt

Document Type : Research and Reference

Authors

1 Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University

2 Zoology Department, Faculty of science, Tanta University

10.21608/djs.2025.434717.1237

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of land use and seasonal variation on soil properties and macrofauna communities in reclaimed agricultural land of Gharbia Governorate, Egypt. A comparative analysis across cultivated, reclaimed, and degraded sites was conducted to assess physicochemical parameters (organic matter, pH, salinity, macro- and micronutrients) and soil macrofauna over four seasons. Reclaimed soils exhibited the highest organic matter and carbon content, particularly in spring, indicating the effectiveness of restoration practices. Degraded soils showed the lowest nutrient levels and faunal diversity, while cultivated soils showed intermediate conditions with higher faunal density but lower diversity. Seasonal dynamics significantly influenced soil properties, with autumn and spring being the most favourable for biological activity. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) revealed strong correlations between soil fauna and environmental factors such as moisture, organic matter, and nutrient availability. The study concludes that sustainable land management should incorporate seasonal variability and site-specific strategies to enhance soil health, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity. Although reclamation practices significantly promote ecosystem recovery, long-term monitoring and adaptive management remain essential for sustaining soil resilience in Egyptian agroecosystems.

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