Biomass decomposition of green manures in southwest of Mato Grosso and its estimate by the NDICEA modell

Abstract

The knowledge of the dynamic of biomass decomposition of green manures and it simulation using mathematics models is required for choosing of good soil conservation practices and nutrient cycling. Hence, the aim of this work was to assess the biomass decomposition of green manures in southwest of Mato Grosso, and the accuracy of the NDICEA model in estimating the biomass decomposition rate of those green manures as well. The experiment was carried out using velvet bean, pigeon pea andmillet as sole cropping and velvet bean + millet and pigeon pea + millet as intercropping, incorporated into the soil or on its surface during 90 days. The incorporation of plant biomass into the soil provided higher decomposition rate of leguminous plant residues. On the other hand, the incorporation of millet biomass sole and intercropped with pigeon pea into the soil did not mean higher decomposition rate. After calibration, the NDICEA model simulated accurately the biomass decomposition of green manures on the surface or incorporated into the soil throughout 90 days. Therefore, this model may be an important tool for farms that aim the correct management of green manures.