Diversity of components and interactions distinguishes complex agro-ecosystems from the simple agroecosystems which have replaced them in most of the temperate zone. In the tropics farmer decisions on agro-ecosystems have retained more similarity with natural ecosystems but a strong trend toward specialization exists. As part of a re-appreciation of agro-ecosystem complexity functional aspects of belowground diversity deserve more attention.
Publication year
1999
Authors
Swift, J.M.; Van, Noordwijk.M.
Keywords
Agroecosystems, Biodiversity, Land use, Soil biology
