A diversity of soil organisms promote nutrient recycling

The center is also studying the effect that cocoa trees have on soil organisms and nutrient recycling. They have found that cocoa plantations are highly efficient at recycling nutrients through leaf litter decomposition and assimilation. Because farmers have little need to use chemical fertilizers on this self-regulating crop, cocoa plantations are easily certified as organic, which has significant benefits on the international market.

Cocoa trees are pollinated by the midge, a small fly that lives in the forest understory. Fearful of harming midge populations, farmers are reluctant to spray their plantations with pesticides. Because of this, farmers must find alternative ways to combat pests and pathogens. The midge is yet another reason why cocoa is well-suited to organic certification.