Diversity and Dominance of Soil Fauna in Various Stand Types in Beneng Taro Cultivation (Xanthosoma undipes k.koch)

Abstract

Beneng taro plants are able to adapt well and grow optimally under the shaded conditions. Differences in stand types can affect microclimate conditions, which affect the activity and diversity of soil fauna. This study aims to determine and analyze the diversity and dominance of soil fauna in several types of stand in the Beneng taro cultivation area. This research is a comparative quantitative study with an exploratory approach. This research was conducted in Cipayung Village, Padarincang District (teak stands) and Talaga Warna Village, Pabuaran District (mixed and banana stands). Sampling points were determined using purposive sampling and data were collected using pitfall traps. Soil fauna were identified and analyzed using the Shannon–Wiener diversity and dominance index. Results recorded 79 individuals (9 families) in the banana stand, 59 individuals (10 families) in the mixed stand, and 50 individuals (7 families) in the teak stand. The mixed stand showed moderate diversity, the teak stand had low diversity with high dominance, while the banana stand had moderate diversity but was dominated by certain species. The mixed stand also had the most stable and supportive microclimate conditions. PCA analysis showed that light intensity, moisture, pH, and organic matter played key roles in influencing soil fauna diversity.