Deep ploughing destroys the vertical structure of soil, turning it permeable on the surface and causing the drainage of MTP. Additionally, it also causes further exposure of the seeds bank. In some cases, tillage using superficial blades is followed by sowing in the pond area, which - although being unsuccessful – ends up competing with the existing vegetal communities of the MTP’s. Tillage for the purpose of soil levelling (earthworks) is also frequent in order to carry out agricultural activities, which causes the MTP to clog results in conversion of these wet lands into exclusively dry environments. All the former tillage actions lead to an irreversible destruction of the habitat.

Eryngium corniculatum destroyed by deep ploughing

In this image, the impact tillage has on the vegetation community is visible. On the left side of the photo, soil mobilization took place and therefore the Eryngium corniculatum did not develop. In contrary, on the right side of the photo, a development took place. 

Here are more images of examples of soil mobilizations that may affect the Mediterranean Temporary Ponds: