African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) > APNRF > Guiding Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration Potential under Selected Farming Systems in Tanzania
, ,

Guiding Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration Potential under Selected Farming Systems in Tanzania

APNRF Tanzania C

Guiding Soil Organic Carbon Sequestration Potential under Selected Farming Systems in Tanzania APNRF-Tanzania (C-Crops)

Theme: Soil Health for Improved Livelihoods
Land Capital
Start Date: 2023
Category: Completed
End Date: 2024

Description

Researchers are exploring the potential for cocoa, coffee, maize and wheat crop production systems production systems to enhance soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration to mitigate climate change and improve agricultural productivity. The study is collecting and analyzing soil samples to evaluate the impact of nutrient management practices and crop types on SOC stocks. Sustainable land management and enhanced farmer livelihoods will benefit from the development of C credit schemes and C predictives tools.

Key Results

  • -144 bulk and core soil samples (0-40 cm) collected across cocoa, coffee, -maize and wheat farms.
  • -Key predictors of SOC include soil bulk density and total nitrogen.
  • -SOC was highest under tree crops (cocoa>coffee) compared to cereal crops ( maize>wheat).
  • -SOC under cocoa and coffee systems benefit most from traditional use of manure.
  • -Cocoa soils benefit from denser tree canopies that contribute more C.
  • -Inorganic fertilizers appear more effective at SOC sequestration than current integrated uses of fertilizer and manure.
  • -Tailored management practices will be a key to maximizing SOC sequestration.

Key Stakeholders

Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute-TARI Milingano Centre

Target Geography

Rungwe and Mbeya districts, Tanzania

Related Information