The hidden workforce beneath our feet: Soil microarthropodsand their role in sustainable agriculture

Soil microarthropods are important but often overlooked components of agricultural ecosystems. They primarily comprise Collembola (springtails) and Acari (mites), together with smaller populations of Protura, Diplura and other soil-dwelling arthropods. These organisms play significant roles in soil biological processes through their interactions with microorganisms, organic matter and other soil fauna. Their activities contribute to organic matter fragmentation, microbial regulation, nutrient mineralization, soil aggregation and plant growth. Certain predatory groups also participate in the regulation of soil-dwelling pests and plant pathogens. Furthermore, their sensitivity to soil disturbance, moisture, temperature and agricultural inputs makes them useful indicators of biological soil quality. Agricultural practices such as reduced tillage, crop rotation, cover cropping and organic matter incorporation can create favourable conditions for their survival and diversity. This article highlights the ecological functions of soil microarthropods, their contribution to soil health and crop productivity and their potential role in sustainable and regenerative agricultural systems.