The effects of mulching as habitat manipulation on the biodiversity of spiders (Araneae) on potato fields in Hungary

Abstract: Mulching is an effective method to preserve soil fertility in arable and horticultural cropping systems, but it can also have an effect on plant protection.Several studies have demonstrated the potential of mulching to suppress weeds and to retain soil humidity in the dry and warm season. According to a study on spiders found in agricultural habitats, mulching can change the distribution of ground-dwelling arthropods as well. Since spiders may play a role in pest control in the crop growing season in 2012 our team studied the effect of mulching on the spider fauna of potato at eight locations in Hungary.