Basaltic rock powder effect on microbial communities in vineyards

Enhanced rock weathering (ERW) applies finely ground silicate rock to soils to remove atmospheric CO2, but its effects on soil biota remain poorly studied. We tested a single 20 tons per hectare basalt application in three vineyards in Western Switzerland, assessing earthworms, arthropods, bacteria, and fungi. Soils were sampled one month and one year post-application. ERW increased earthworm abundance and arthropod diversity, with no detectable effects on bacterial or fungal communities. Results indicate limited short-term ecological risk at moderate rates, but broader long-term trials are needed.