Molecular Soil Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.1, 37-45 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 42 dung and dung beetles has been shown to improve the growth and physiological processes of crops like bok choy, making it a sustainable strategy for soil and crop management (Kaleri et al., 2020). Additionally, the role of dung decomposers in nutrient cycling is vital for maintaining soil health and mitigating nutrient losses in grazing fields (Maldonado et al., 2019). 7 Challenges and Future Research 7.1 Knowledge gaps in dung decomposition processes Despite significant advancements in understanding dung decomposition, several knowledge gaps remain. One major gap is the detailed mechanistic understanding of how different decomposers, such as dung beetles and earthworms, interact with microbial communities to influence nutrient cycling and soil health. For instance, while it is known that dung beetles improve soil properties and plant growth by burying dung, the specific microbial processes involved are not fully understood (Badenhorst et al., 2018; Griffiths et al., 2021). Additionally, the role of invertebrates as primary decomposers, rather than just facilitators of microbial decomposition, needs further exploration (Griffiths et al., 2021). Another gap is the variability in decomposition rates and nutrient release depending on the type of organic waste used, such as cow dung, fish sludge, or plant residues, and how these differences impact soil fertility and plant growth (Yuvaraj et al., 2018; Moustafa et al., 2022). 7.2 Potential impact of climate change on decomposer activity Climate change poses a significant threat to the activity and efficiency of dung decomposers. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can alter the habitat suitability for decomposers like dung beetles and earthworms, potentially reducing their populations and activity levels (Badenhorst et al., 2018; Ngone et al., 2018). For example, higher temperatures may increase the metabolic rates of decomposers, leading to faster decomposition but also higher CO2 emissions, which could exacerbate climate change (Soares and Rousk, 2019). Additionally, extreme weather events, such as droughts and heavy rains, can disrupt the delicate balance of soil moisture and temperature, further impacting decomposer activity and soil health (Ngone et al., 2018; Moustafa et al., 2022). Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the negative effects of climate change on soil fertility and plant growth. 7.3 Future directions for research and application in agriculture Future research should focus on several key areas to enhance the understanding and application of dung decomposers in agriculture. First, there is a need for more comprehensive studies on the interactions between different decomposers and microbial communities, and how these interactions influence nutrient cycling and soil health (Wang et al., 2020; Griffiths et al., 2021). Second, research should explore the potential of using a combination of decomposers, such as dung beetles and earthworms, to maximize the benefits of dung decomposition (Badenhorst et al., 2018; Yuvaraj et al., 2018). Third, the development of climate-resilient decomposer species through selective breeding or genetic modification could help mitigate the impacts of climate change on decomposer activity (Soares and Rousk, 2019; Cornejo et al., 2021). Finally, integrating decomposer-based strategies into conventional agricultural practices, such as crop rotation and organic fertilization, could improve soil fertility, reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, and enhance sustainable agricultural productivity (Badenhorst et al., 2018; Ngone et al., 2018; Wang et al., 2020). 8 Concluding Remarks Dung decomposers, particularly dung beetles, play a crucial role in enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth. Studies have shown that dung beetle activity significantly improves soil properties such as water infiltration rates, bulk density, and nutrient content, which in turn boosts plant biomass and health. Additionally, the presence of dung beetles has been linked to increased microbial diversity and activity in the soil, further contributing to nutrient cycling and soil health. The application of dung beetles in various soil types, including those simulating reclaimed mined land, has demonstrated their ability to maintain their beneficial activities even under challenging conditions.
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