The Effect of Human Trampling Activity on a Soil Microbial Community at the Urban Forest Park

Abstract

Soil degradation resulting from human trampling in urban forest parks can negatively impact the taxonomic diversity and function of soil microbial communities. In this study, we established long-term, fixed large plots in Zijin Mountain Urban Forest Park in Nanjing, China, to assess the level of trampling pressure. Soil samples were collected from depths of 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm for light trampling (LD), moderate trampling (MD), severe trampling (SD), extreme trampling (ED), and a no-trampling control (CK). The effects of different trampling pressures on soil were studied, including soil nutrient indices, microbial biomass, and the taxonomic diversity of fungi and bacteria. ANOVA and structural equation modeling (SEM) were employed to investigate the impacts of human trampling on the microbial community structure and function. The results indicated that soil organic carbon, ammonium, and acid phosphatase activity were the primary driving factors of microbial community change. Soil microbial diversity initially increased and then decreased with increasing trampling intensity. The changes in soil microbial function and classification were found to be associated with the intensity of trampling. Moderate trampling could enhance the diversity of the soil microbial community. The succession pattern of the fungi and bacteria communities was distinct, and the composition of the bacteria community remained relatively stable. Trampling impacts vegetation and soil structure, which then affects the structure and function of the microbial community. This study provides an essential foundation for the restoration of compacted soil in urban forest parks through targeted monitoring and management efforts.