Soil biodiversity – its many dimensions and roles

At this month’s General Meeting our invited guest, Lyn Abbott, will provide an explanation of the important roles plants play in maintaining soil biodiversity and explain how groups of soil organisms work together to build soil fertility and resilience. She will also refer to the impacts of different soil types and disturbance on soil biodiversity and the implications these variables have on soil health. The value of parallel studies in natural and agricultural ecosystems that explore how soil biodiversity can be enhanced and maintained will also be addressed.

Emerita Professor Lyn Abbott commenced research at The University of Western Australia in 1974 investigating the role of mycorrhizas in pastures. Her research has focused on how life in soil is linked to nutrient acquisition by plants, especially the role of soil amendments and plant-microbe interactions. She became an Emerita Professor in the School of Agriculture and Environment in 2013 and continues research and extension related to soil health, productivity and resilience funded by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

This month we return to The Palms Community Centre. Doors open at 7.45 pm for an 8 pm start with a $3 donation giving you entry into the night’s door prize. All are welcome.