Changes on soil structural stability after in natura and composted chicken manure application

Purpose Many studies evaluate the effect of successive applications of chicken manure on soil attributes. In Brazil, the commercialization of this waste is common, implying on its sporadic use instead of many applications at the same area. The short-term effects of a single application of chicken manure and the role of its composting on soil structural stability are not fully understood. This study investigated application of in natura (uncomposted) and composted chicken manure on the structural stability of a Rhodic Ferralsol after a short period following single application. Methods The experiment was performed in a Rhodic Ferralsol in Londrina, Parana. Brazil. We applied in natura and composted chicken manure at doses of 4.5, 9.0, 13.5, and 18.0 Mg ha(-1) plus a control without application. Soil samples were collected after 185 days at the 0.0-20.0 cm layer for laboratorial analysis. Results The composting of chicken manure did not affect soil structural stability. Chicken manure did not alter water-dispersible clay ((x) over bar = 21.7%), but increased the mean weight diameter of water-stable aggregates (MWD = 5.43 + 0.068 x dose) through the agglomeration of aggregates with 0.5-4 mm into 8-19 mm. Conclusion Even after a short period of 185 days, the application of chicken manure increases the structural stability of Rhodic Ferralsols and its composting, in the way performed by many farmers, is not associated with the improvement of soil structural stability in short-term. However, other advantages arise from the composting of the manure and need to be considered prior its use.