Recent studies indicate that the entry of exogenous reactive nitrogen has a significant effect on the carbon cycle in terrestrial ecosystems. Previous research has focused on topsoil layers. However, these layers represent only half of the soil organic carbon (SOC). The deep soil layer, due to its unique environmental conditions, may respond differently to nitrogen…
A research group led by Wenbing Tan from the Chinese Academy of Environmental Sciences carried out a long-term field experiment. They collected soil samples from agricultural plots with different nitrogen fertilizer treatments. Using stable isotopes of carbon, they investigated the contributions of new and old carbon to SOC. The aim was to clarify the role of soil depth.
The team integrated physical and chemical properties of the soil with the vertical distribution of organic carbon and nitrogen. They explored the mechanisms of SOC dynamics in response to different nitrogen fertilizer application rates in deep soils.
The study revealed a significant increase in SOC with the application of nitrogen fertilizers. This increase varied depending on the amount applied. High nitrogen applications increased SOC sequestration primarily through reduced tillage and the return of crop residues to the field.
Differences were observed in SOC turnover rates under different nitrogen levels. High nitrogen applications increased SOC sequestration by transferring organic matter from the surface to more stable deeper layers. Under low nitrogen conditions, the carbon sequestration capacity of SOC in deep soils was lower due to the high turnover rate of new organic carbon.
The results suggest that reducing SOC microbial decomposition rates under high nitrogen conditions is a key mechanism for improving soil carbon sink functions. The research also confirmed that the increased strength of the soil carbon sink under high nitrogen enrichment conditions is primarily due to enhanced vertical transport of soil organic matter.
Information about the study can be read at doi.org/10.15302/J-FASE-2024565
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