Measuring respiration profiles of soil microbial communities across Europe using MicroResp (TM) method

A European transect was established to assess soil microbial activity, using the MicroResp (TM) method, as part of a larger project looking at soil biodiversity and function across Europe. 81 sites were sampled across five biogeographical zones described and mapped in the [EA report (EEA, 2012) and included the following classes; Boreal, Atlantic, Continental, Mediterranean and Alpine, three land-use types (Arable, Grass and Forest) incorporating a wide range of soil pH, soil organic carbon (org C) and texture. Seven carbon substrates were used to determine multiple substrate induced respiration (MSIR), incorporating; acids, bases, sugars and amino acids. Substrates included: D-(+)-galactose, L-malic acid, gamma amino butyric acid, n-acetyl glucosamine, D-(+)-glucose, alpha ketogluterate, citric acid and water. MicroResp (TM) results showed discrimination of land-use type over a large spatial scale and response to soil pH and soil organic carbon. Substrates behaved differently depending upon combinations of land-use and soil properties specifically the greater utilisation of carboxylic acid based substrates in arable sites. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.