Effect of cropping systems on the stability of red-yellow latosol aggregates in Querencia, Mato Grosso, Brazil

The effect of different cropping systems on the water aggregates stability of a Red-Yellow Latosol with medium texture was studied in Querencia county, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Nine contiguous areas were selected: one covered with natural "cerrado" vegetation transient to Amazon forest, and others with annual cropping systems. Undisturbed soil samples were collected for determining the stability in water, granulometric analysis and organic matter. Modifications in the structure and soil organic matter caused by different cropping systems were observed from the beginning of soil preparation to the first planting. The greatest fractioning of aggregates occurred in areas prepared with disc plowing and disc harrowing for monocropping of soybean from four to six years. The direct planting of soybean over millet residue for two continuous years resulted in a greater stability of the soil aggregates. There was a positive correlation between the organic matter and the soil aggregates with an average diameter higher than 2 mm of the aggregates and the flocculation grade.