Comparative analysis of two edaphic zoocenoses (Acari Oribatida; Hexapoda Collembola) in the area of Orio al Serio Airport (Bergamo, northern Italy)

Species richness, abundance and diversity of oribatid mites and springtails in soil litter were investigated at four sites in the area of Orio al Serio Airport (Bergamo, Italy). A total of 60 oribatid mite and 35 springtail species were collected from the sites. The general low diversity and eveness along with high dominance may be related to the sensitivity of these edaphic zoocenoses to soil impoverishment which has been occurring in this part of the italian pre-Alps for many years.Quantitative and qualitative differences were found among the investigated areas. Results show that less frequently disturbed soils are capable of restoring oribatid and springtail population, leading to greater equilibrium. Results show that less frequently disturbed soils allow the restoration of more equilibrated oribatid and springtail populations. Species were divided into 8 autoecological and 11 chorological categories, Correspondance Analysis arranged these categories among the sites, confirming the above-mentioned trend.