Functions of Agroforestry in Maintaining Nutrient and Biological Cycles

Agroforestry systems support several ecosystem processes and services and act as refuges for biodiversity. It is crucial to prioritise sustainability when dealing with food and nutrition shortages considering the changes in land use and the increasing uncertainties, variabilities and extreme events caused by climate change. The character of the dominant tree and the decline in tree variety can have significant effects on how well an ecosystem performs, for example, by diminishing agricultural production and altering nutrient cycle. It is commonly acknowledged that nitrogen-fixing plants are essential to agroforestry systems. In this chapter, we look at the interactions between woody plant species, the effects of woody species on soil fertility, and the significance of considering these factors when designing agroforestry systems. By diversifying food sources, enhancing and preserving soil and minimising wind erosion, agroforestry can be a financially viable and environmentally responsible agricultural technique that can also assist smallholder farmers manage the climate-related extremes.