LAUSR

The application of organic materials, such as poultry litter or poultry litter biochar, may lead to major changes in the structural and functional diversity of microbial populations. The understanding of the relationship between microorganisms and environment is crucial to assess the effect of organic materials on soil. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the influence of the addition of poultry litter (5 t DM ha−1) and poultry litter biochar in doses of 2.25 t and 5 t DM ha−1 on soil respiration activity, microbial biomass, and nitrifying bacteria activity. In soils with poultry litter biochar added in 2.25 t and 5 t DM ha−1 doses, microbial biomass was significantly higher than in treatment with mineral fertilisation applied (MF), by 59 and 77%, respectively. The significantly highest basal respiration value was determined in soil with 5 t DM ha−1 biochar. The application of poultry litter had significant effect on nitrifying bacteria activity (increase by 50%). Poultry litter biochar added to the soil in both doses contributed to an increase in nitrifying bacteria activity by 36 and 34%, respectively compared to MF treatment. Biochar had more adverse effect on soil microbial biomass and nitrifying bacteria activity than non-converted poultry litter, but it had significant effect on soil respiration activity.Graphical Abstract