Effects of agricultural systems on ant diversity (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Central Morocco

Ants are essential components of ecosystems, playing critical roles in nutrient cycling, pest control, and soil health. Agricultural practices significantly influence ant biodiversity, yet studies on this subject remain scarce in Morocco. This study examines the impact of three agricultural systems on ant diversity in Central Morocco: conventional (monoculture with intensive pesticide use), organic (no synthetic inputs and crop diversification), and traditional (low-input polyculture based on local practices), focusing on El Jadida and El Oualidia provinces. Using pitfall traps, a total of 1823 ants belonging to 4 subfamilies, 14 genera, and 21 species were sampled across the three systems. Organic agriculture exhibited the highest species richness (17 species; relative abundances dominated by Tetramorium caldarium and Paratrechina longicornis), and the highest Shannon diversity index, followed by traditional agriculture (11 species) and conventional agriculture (8 species). PERMANOVA and IndVal analyses revealed significant differences in species composition, with organic and traditional systems fostering distinct communities compared to conventional agriculture. Linear Discriminant Analysis highlighted clear separations among systems, reflecting the effects of habitat heterogeneity and management practices. The study underscores the ecological importance of organic and traditional practices in supporting ant biodiversity and calls for sustainable agricultural management to limit the negative impacts of biodiversity loss and homogenisation caused by conventional farming.