Comparison of biological indicators of soil macrofun during the growing and resting seasons in the protected area of Genu, Hormozgan province, Iran

Soil macrofauna plays a critical role in the development of soil structure and provides a variety of ecological functions. The present study aims to compare the biological index of soil macrofauna in broadleaved, coniferous, and mixed stands during growing and resting seasons in Geno protected area, Hormozgan Province, Iran. After a half-hectare broadleaved stand, a half-hectare coniferous stand, and a half-hectare broadleaf-coniferous (mixed) stand in the Geno protected area were selected to identify the soil macrofauna and measure the physical, chemical, and soil properties and their relationship with soil macrofauna, 10 soil samples were randomly collected from different soil depths including under the canopy to a depth of 15 cm, during the growing and resting seasons. The macrofauna were isolated from the soil samples and were then submitted to a laboratory for chemical analysis. Data were analyzed using SPSS26 software. Richness, evenness, and biodiversity indices were compared using t-test, and then ANOVA and Duncan tests were used to compare physical and chemical properties of macrofauna soil in growing and resting seasons. The results showed a significant difference biological index of macrofauna in broadleaved, coniferous, and mixed stands in the growing and resting seasons.Tperesence of macrofauna the soil, their great diversity and activity as one of the key factors in the supply of nutrients and soil fertility can play a constructive role in the health of ecosystems and maintaining its balance