Did you know that soil is the largest carbon reservoir on land? It contains between 1,100 and 1,500 gigatones of carbon in the top metre of soil, which is roughly double that of the atmosphere [1]. As the total carbon in the earth is unchangeable, the more carbon is stored in the soil, the less carbon dioxide there is in the air. In this way, capturing carbon in soils helps to mitigate climate change.
Soil microbes are crucial for carbon sequestration—the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the soil. Here’s how soil microbial communities contribute to this process:
🌾 Decomposition of organic matter
Soil microbes break down plant residues and animal waste, converting them into simpler substances. This process forms soil organic matter (SOM), a stable carbon reservoir that can store carbon for centuries. By contributing to the formation of humus, microbes improve soil fertility and structure, making soils more productive and resilient.
🦠 Microbial biomass
Soil microbes use carbon to build their bodies and grow. When they eventually die, they become part of the soil organic matter, adding to the soil's carbon stock.
🌱 Symbiotic relationships
Mycorrhizal fungi and other microbes form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, boosting plant growth and enhancing the capture of atmospheric CO₂.
🟤 Soil aggregation
Microbial activity promotes the formation of soil aggregates, which protect organic matter from rapid decomposition, thus stabilising carbon in the soil.
The benefits of supporting soil microbes extend from the atmosphere to our soils, creating a win-win for the environment and agriculture. Carbon-rich soils are more fertile, support healthier plants, and improve water retention, leading to better crop yields and reduced need for chemical fertilisers.
At #BIOTREX, we believe that soil microbes are vital for tackling climate change and making the transition to sustainable agriculture. That's why we provide innovative technology to measure and manage the invisible potential of our soils! 💜
[1] A.R.G. Mason, M.J. Salomon, A.J. Lowe, T.R. Cavagnaro, Microbial solutions to soil carbon sequestration, Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 417, 2023
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