Prospects of Using Termite Mound Soil Organic Amendment for Enhancing Soil Nutrition in Southern Africa

• Main Authors: Kafula Chisanga, Ernest R. Mbega, Patrick A. Ndakidemi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-05-01
• Series: Plants
• Subjects: soil conditioner; soil fertility; soil nutrient bioavailability; soil pH; soil physical and chemical properties
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/9/5/649

Termite mound soils are reportedly utilized as an alternative to NPK fertilizers by cash<br />constrained smallholder farmers in some parts of Southern Africa. However, there is limited<br />knowledge regarding their mineral nutritional value. The intention of this work was therefore to<br />investigate the macro and micronutrient composition of different sections of the termite mounds;<br />top, base and neighboring areas. The study approach involved physical and chemical analysis of 36<br />sites across Pemba and Choma districts in Southern Zambia through collection of soil samples in<br />triplicate at 0–20 cm depth, using a soil auger. Findings revealed that the soil pH had elevated<br />levels in the base segments of the termite mounds compared with the top and the neighbouring<br />soils. However, elevated N, P and K levels were recorded in the top sections with significant<br />differences (P < 0.05) in clay and silt composition observed. Additionally, metallic micronutrients,<br />Cu and Zn were also found to be elevated in termite mounds in contrast to surrounding soils. We<br />concluded that top termite mound soil should be considered as part of an integrated nutrient<br />management strategy by financially challenged smallholder farmers cultivating in light textured<br />soils of southern Africa.