An Attempt to Characterize Complex Properties of Agroecosystems Based on Soil Fauna, Soil Properties and Farming System in the North of Poland

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Abstract
In this paper an attempt is made to determine approximately the complex processes of soil subsystems, considering the role of soil fauna, some macrolevel soil characteristics, input to production, economic aims and crop yields. Also, soil genesis, soil properties, land use and management properties related to two farming systems, “biological” (BIOL) and “conventional” (CONV), are discussed. Investigations were carried out in fields of almost the same edaphic features (loamy sand) and closely related crop plant species. Weather conditions were not typical. In June 1993, during the experiments, a four year period of severe drought ended. Spring 1994 was very wet, but the summer was exceptionally dry and hot. Protozoa, a group that takes part in processes of mineralizing organic matter, was found to have a major role compared with other members of the soil fauna. Earthworms and Collembola were less numerous in comparison with average abundance. On light soils, the functioning of the whole system was supported by incorporation of compost into the soil. The investigated fields proved to be very sensitive systems, independent of the production system studied, and only careful maintenance can provide productivity. The main factor influencing their functioning is water stress.