Abstract
To meet the need for knowledge about soil biodiversity, we are exploring the possibility of linking a soil biodiversity monitoring to the French Soil Quality Monitoring Network (called RMQS). The aim of this linkage is to benefit from the operational nature of the RMQS and to cross information on biodiversity with data already available on soils. Biodiversity measurements are already being carried out at RMQS sites. A working group including national experts has designed a questionnaire to assess the compatibility of the RMQS sampling plan with soil biodiversity monitoring and to define the characteristics of this new monitoring (taxa and functions to be monitored, protocols, material, human and financial requirements). These same experts then answered thequestionnaire and the information gathered was supplemented during individual interviews. The project's progress was validated during plenary meetings. It was concluded that the RMQS sampling plan (16kmx16km grid, 400 m2 study site, resampling of each site every 15 years) was suitable for monitoring soil biodiversity. However, the ecologist-experts stressed the need to sample the mesofauna and macrofauna in spring. They recommended five protocols for monitoring soil micro-organisms, microfauna, mesofauna and macrofauna. A flora measurement was also integrated with seed bank monitoring. Three functions (soil macroporosity due to earthworm activity, enzymatic activity and organic matter degradation) will also be measured. If the RMQS-Biodiversity is set up on a permanent basis and deployed on the 2,240 sites in mainland France, it should provide robust documentation of the biogeography of soil organisms, deciphering their links with agricultural practices and possibly leading to the discovery of new species. Additional work is required for sites in the French overseas territories.