Dynamic changes of soil nematodes between bulk and rhizosphere soils in the maize (Zea mays L.)/alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) intercropping system

•Soil nematodes and the drivers of these changes have a different faunal assemblage•Nematodes-related parameters were significantly increased in the rhizosphere•Increases occur in the single alfalfa and alfalfa grown in a mixture with maize•Also, an increase occurs in total sugars, and organic acids in the rhizosphere soils•Positive association of nematode and omnivores-predators with soil properties•Promotes the abundance and diversity of nematodes and enhances sustainable agriculture