Diversity of soil macrofauna in agroforestry systems with Theobroma cacao in Córdoba, Colombia

Agricultural practices place environmental pressures that compromise the physicochemical conditions of soil and, consequently, its sustainability. This leads to variations in the diversity of soil macrofauna and its ecosystem functions. In response, alternatives such as agroforestry systems (AFS) have emerged, aiming to improve edaphoclimatic properties. In Córdoba, Colombia, soil sustainability in AFS and the diversity they harbor remain unknown. This study aims to evaluate the diversity of soil macrofauna in agroforestry systems with cacao in the municipality of Tierralta, Córdoba. Sampling was conducted in nine cacao-producing farms in the study area. Soil macrofauna was collected using the TSBF (Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility) methodology, totaling 1 006 individuals, classified into three phyla, 10 classes, and 19 orders. Alpha and beta diversity were estimated, and functional groups present were described. A high diversity of soil macroinvertebrates was found in the cacao agroforestry systems, with 19 orders identified. The presence of detritivores and ecosystem engineers suggests positive soil regeneration and restoration. Dominant groups such as Opisthopora, Polydesmida, Hymenoptera, and Blattodea contrast with “rare” orders indicative of specific soil conditions. This highlights the potential of cacao agroforestry systems to host a significant diversity of soil macrofauna, contributing to soil sustainability in the region.