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Abstract
To assess the influence of filth flies and epigeal arthropods on nitrogen losses in grazing systems under three fertilization legacies (broiler litter, mineral, or none), a study was conducted in Georgia Piedmont. N2O, CO2, and NH3 manure emissions were measured on days 0, 4, 8, and 15 following deposition. Soil and manure samples were collected on days 0 and 16. Soil samples were analyzed for NH4+, NO3-, plant available N (PAN), potential mineralizable N (PMN), and LOI. Manure was analyzed for total Kjeldahl nitrogen. Numbers of filth flies ovipositing and emerging from manure, fire ants, and epigeal arthropods around the manure were determined. Horn flies, the predominant filth fly species, increased N emissions under all fertilization legacies. Red imported fire ants reduced emerging flies. Biodiversity and abundance of fly predators were positively correlated with PAN and PMN levels, which were higher in broiler litter-fertilized pastures.