Conservation of biological crusts in agricultural soils in Cienfuegos, promoting sustainability and ecosystem health

Abstract

 Biological soil crusts (BSC) are composed of a conglomerate of microorganisms living in symbiotic association. This microbial consortium provides benefits to soil fertility and water retention capacity. The primary objective of this study was to determine the specific composition of biological soil crusts and to inform strategic actions for their conservation at the agricultural production cooperative "Mártires de Barbados" from Cienfuegos Province, Cuba. Three transects were used to sample the crusts, with three collection points spaced 5-10 meters apart. The percentage of crust coverage in each mat was determined using a grid, and samples were taken at a depth of 0-2 cm from the surface with a spatula. A stereoscopic and optical microscope was used to identify the species present in the crusts. Among the results of microscopic analyses, mosses predominated at the entrance of cooperative, in an area free of crops. In the papaya and mixed plantations (mango and banana), cyanobacteria of the Nostocales and Oscillatoriales orders predominated, respectively. Measures or actions were proposed for the care and conservation of biological crusts in this important agricultural production area.

 Key words: Cyanobacteria, Biological Crusts, Microscope, Soil, Transepts