Unlocking complex soil systems as carbon sinks: multi-pool management as the key

Much research focuses on increasing carbon storage in mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM), in which carbon may persist for centuries to millennia. However, MAOM-targeted management is insufficient because the formation pathways of persistent soil organic matter are diverse and vary with environmental conditions. Effective management must also consider particulate organic matter (POM). In many soils, there is potential for enlarging POM pools, POM can persist over long time scales, and POM can be a direct precursor of MAOM. We present a framework for context-dependent management strategies that recognizes soils as complex systems in which environmental conditions constrain POM and MAOM formation.

Automated summary

Much research is focused on increasing carbon storage in mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM) that can persist for centuries to millennia. However, managing MAOM alone is insufficient as the formation pathways of persistent soil organic matter can vary with environmental conditions. Effective management should also consider particulate organic matter (POM) which can persist for long time scales and serve as a precursor to MAOM. A framework for context-dependent management strategies is presented, recognizing soils as complex systems where environmental conditions constrain POM and MAOM formation.