Field-scale assessment of vermicompost amendments for diuron-contaminated soil: Implications for soil quality and pesticide fate

Abstract

This comprehensive study investigated the distribution, dissipation, and environmental impact of diuron and its metabolites (DPMU, DPU, and DCA), as well as its effects on enzyme activities, bacterial abundance, and community composition in response to different soil treatments using two vermicomposts. One vermicompost was derived from vine shoot waste, and the other from wet olive cake (alperujo). The study was conducted under field conditions in a semi-arid region. The results indicated that diuron concentrations decreased with soil depth, with the highest levels in the upper 0–5 cm layer. The application of both vermicomposts reduced diuron leaching into the soil, facilitating its dissipation compared to the organically unamended soil. DPMU was the main metabolite detected in the soil, especially at the end of the experiment. Enzyme activities, including dehydrogenase, β-glucosidase, protease, and acid phosphatase, showed variations with treatment and time, indicating microbial adaptation. In general, both vermicomposts increased soil enzyme activities, even when diuron was co-applied. Bacterial communities were affected by diuron and vermicomposts, with Actinobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria showing significant shifts in relative abundance. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) confirmed structural changes in bacterial communities due to diuron and vermicomposts. Warmer temperatures and evapotranspiration may contribute to the distribution of diuron in the different layers of soil and affect microbial activity. Overall, vermicomposts from wet olive cake proved effective in mitigating diuron in the different soil layers, promoting enzyme activities, and influencing bacterial communities. These findings underscore the complexity of interactions between diuron, organic amendments, and soil microorganisms, highlighting the potential for enhanced herbicide dissipation and microbial resilience and adaptation.