Bio-fertilization of arid lands by terrestrial snails-targeting the wider physiological, geomorphological and agricultural perspectives

Abstract

Surveys in arid regions worldwide reveal the widespread presence of naturally found Terrestrial Snails (TSs) in extreme arid and semi-arid regions and poor soil conditions such as eroded loess plains. A significant beneficial connection between TS and their impact on ecosystem functioning is suggested including their use as bio-fertilizers. The study was conducted from 2017 to 2023 in Northern Negev, Israel, at the PWA farm and Sayeret-Shaked LTER. The study aimed to determine the influence of TSs on soil fertility and explore its potential contribution to sustainable and profitable agriculture. The findings indicate that the local TSs contributed to a 2% increase in organic matter content, a significant 60% increase in Calcite-Magnetite, and up to six times higher levels of soluble Calcium and Magnesium compared to unaffected soil. An increase with a potential for CO₂ inorganic sequestration. It is also indicated that successful agricultural utilization of TS relies on unmanaged rocky slopes for reproduction, designated migration paths for farmland access, and a unique cultivation approach to enhance decomposition. The finding may enable policymakers, and regional or government agencies to further invest in local ecosystems, and effective management tools for enhancing the reproduction of bio-fertilizers such as TS are also raised.