Soil Science

Iron minerals help decide whether dissolved organic matter becomes microbial food or long-term carbon

Research shows soil temperature modulated millet agriculture in Neolithic East Asia

How trees in urban areas are key to cooling down a warmer world

A study by Ohio State University found that certain tree species, such as red maple and northern catalpa, are more resilient to heat and water stress. Urban forests can provide natural cooling, reducing summer electricity usage, but require careful management and investment in irrigation systems.

Significant rise in valley fever cases in El Paso linked to extreme weather, dust, UTEP study finds

Researchers at UTEP found strong connections between Valley fever and extreme weather, wind, and airborne dust, with the disease risk anticipated based on environmental signals. The study identified seasonal patterns, with peak cases in summer months.

Soil fertilization with Amazonian dark earth increases tree diameter by up to 88%

Research in Amazonas reveals that small amounts of Amazonian dark earth can increase the height and diameter of two tree species by up to 55% and 88%, respectively. The study attributes this growth to the reorganization of beneficial microorganisms around plant roots.

Decades-long study finds ‘stable’ soil carbon degrades

A four-decade long study found that even 'stable' carbon in forest soils can break down as temperatures rise, releasing more CO2. Microbial communities play a critical role in soil ecosystems and their changes can speed the loss of carbon from soils.

Hasanuddin University study reveals insights for climate resilience in smallholder cacao farms

Researchers found that integrating a mix of shade trees improves soil health and plant physiology, leading to stronger plant growth and consistent early fruit development. Proper management through spacing, pruning, and natural mulch can also make cacao farms more resilient to climate stress.

Study reveals soil, not fertilizer, is primary source of nitrogen gas loss in rice paddies

A new study led by Prof. YAN Xiaoyuan finds that most nitrogen gas emissions from rice paddies originate from soil organic nitrogen, rather than applied fertilizers. The researchers propose a novel mechanism to explain this phenomenon, suggesting that fertilizer activates soil nitrogen pools, indirectly driving larger nitrogen losses.

New global model reveals how biochar can boost climate-smart agriculture

A new study uses a process-based model to predict biochar's effectiveness in various agricultural systems worldwide. The research highlights that biochar can improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but its benefits vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and management practices.

Liquid biochar fertilizers boost crop yields while improving soil sustainability, study finds

Researchers developed liquid biochar mineral complex fertilizers that significantly increase crop yields and improve nutrient efficiency. The nitrogen-enriched formulation delivered the strongest results, achieving positive nitrogen and phosphorus balances while reducing labor and cost.

One in five assessed soil species at risk of extinction, data needed for thousands more - study

A new report warns that over 40% of soil-dependent species are at risk of extinction. The study highlights the importance of conserving these species for food security and mitigating global warming.

Thiol-modified biochar stabilizes toxic mercury in soils under extreme climate conditions

Researchers found that thiol-modified biochar reduces mercury mobility by up to 80% in soils exposed to dry-wet cycles. The material promotes natural weathering processes, traps mercury in stable forms, and alters the soil microbial community, creating a resilient ecosystem.

Global forum highlights new strategies to balance soil health and carbon sequestration

The session discussed the complex relationship between organic carbon inputs and long-term carbon storage in soils. Emerging strategies were presented to optimize organic amendments and enhance both soil function and carbon retention.

Intelligent monitoring pipe detects and predicts 3D soil settlement

Researchers developed an intelligent monitoring pipe combining optical sensing and machine learning to monitor and predict 3D soil settlement. The system provides precision 3D measurements, capturing dynamic changes in soft or unstable soils like loess.

Fungi hold the key to boosting urban soil health with biochar and compost

A new study reveals that combining biochar and compost can restore urban soil health, but only under the right conditions. Fungi play a crucial role in determining success, and their diversity is linked to improvements in soil health.

Biochar acts as a “sorption pump” to curb antibiotic pollution in structured soils

Researchers found that biochar can actively regulate the movement of antibiotics in soil, reducing cumulative fluxes by up to 15%. Biochar creates a concentration gradient at the interface between macropores and surrounding soil, pulling contaminants into the soil matrix for retention.

Tailored biochar strategies boost alfalfa growth and resilience in saline soils

A new study reveals that carefully designed biochar amendments can improve plant growth and soil health in saline-alkali soils by reshaping plant metabolism and microbial communities. Alkaline biochar was found to stimulate key metabolic pathways, while acid-modified biochar enhanced root development and activated plant defense systems.

Green tea and biochar combine to create smarter fertilizers that boost crops and cut emissions

A new study reveals a innovative fertilizer technology that combines biochar, natural polymers, and green-synthesized iron nanoparticles to release nutrients only when plants need them. The results show significant improvements in soil health and reduced environmental impacts.

Biochar reshapes climate-driven soil emissions, but effects depend on soil type

Researchers found that biochar can either dampen or amplify temperature sensitivity of nitrous oxide emissions in soils. Biochar's effects depend on soil properties and environmental conditions.

Biochar boosts soil carbon storage through microbial pathways, but effects vary with soil depth

A new field study reveals that biochar significantly increases microbial necromass carbon in topsoil by up to 39%, linked to improved nutrient availability and microbial efficiency. However, in subsoil layers, biochar reduces microbial necromass carbon by as much as 30% due to nutrient limitations.

Magnetic biochar gel offers breakthrough solution for arsenic and antimony contamination in rice fields

A newly developed magnetic biochar material effectively reduces the uptake of arsenic and antimony in rice plants, stabilizing contaminants while supporting plant growth. The study also reveals improvements in plant health, including stronger root systems and reduced physiological stress.

Biochar offers climate-smart pathway to healthier soils and safer tea production

A new scientific review highlights how biochar can transform tea farming by restoring soil health, reducing pollution risks, and improving both yield and quality. Biochar can increase tea yields by 10 to 40 percent while enhancing quality traits such as amino acids and polyphenols that influence flavor.

Hydrochar boosts soil carbon storage and structure more effectively than biochar, study finds

A new study finds that hydrochar significantly enhances soil organic carbon and aggregation, offering a promising strategy for sustainable soil management. Hydrochar can simultaneously improve soil structure and increase carbon sequestration, making it a versatile solution for improving soil health in agriculture.

Salty soils slow biochar aging but limit beneficial microbes, study finds

Researchers found that increasing soil salinity slows biochar aging and limits microbial colonization. Biochar retains more carbon and shows greater structural stability in saline environments compared to low-salinity conditions.

Urban construction soils identified as hidden carbon source, with biochar offering a scalable climate solution

A new study reveals excavated urban soils as a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon dioxide and methane. Biochar application and soil capping can dramatically reduce emissions by up to 96%, offering a practical climate solution for urban development.

Biochar from peanut shells boosts soil health and crop quality over the long term

A six-year field study reveals that biochar made from peanut shells improves soil fertility and enhances crop quality by reshaping soil microbial communities. The study shows that biochar acts as both a habitat and a nutrient source for beneficial microbes, promoting plant growth and increasing soluble sugar content in tobacco leaves.

Not all biochar is created equal: study calls for clearer standards in carbon markets and agriculture

A new study highlights the critical misunderstanding of biochar's role in fighting climate change and improving soils, warning that oversimplified claims could undermine scientific progress and carbon markets. Biochar is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its effectiveness depends on where it is used.

Biochar can curb methane emissions in rice fields, but nitrogen levels make the difference

A new study found that biochar can significantly reduce methane emissions from rice paddies when applied at optimal nitrogen levels. However, high nitrogen inputs may actually increase methane emissions, highlighting the need for careful management of fertilizer inputs.

Biochar offers climate-smart path to restore dryland soils and fight desertification

A new review highlights biochar's potential to reverse land degradation, improve soil health, and support sustainable agriculture in arid regions. Biochar can increase crop yields, reduce erosion risks, and enhance soil resilience, while also contributing to global carbon sequestration efforts.

Nano-enabled biochar fertilizers help rice grow safer in contaminated soils

A new study reveals that nano-biochar fertilizers can actively regulate soil processes and help protect rice from harmful metal accumulation. The findings show improved rice growth, enhanced soil biological activity, and reduced cadmium and arsenic uptake in contaminated soils.

Freezing soils may hold the key to locking away toxic arsenic, new study finds

A new study reveals that freeze-thaw cycles can dramatically improve biochar's ability to trap toxic arsenic in contaminated soils. The research found that freezing and thawing fundamentally reshapes how biochar interacts with soil at microscopic scales, creating stronger connections between biochar particles and soil minerals.

Biochar helps forests fight acid rain by restoring vital soil nitrogen

A new field study reveals that biochar can significantly restore soil health and nitrogen availability in forests affected by acid rain. Biochar triggers major biological changes in the soil, enhancing microbial biomass and increasing nitrogen use efficiency.

Long-term field study shows biochar delivers dual benefits for soil health and climate mitigation

A 14-year field study shows that biochar can simultaneously reduce heavy metal risks in agricultural soils while enhancing carbon storage. Biochar improved soil carbon storage, reducing toxicity by up to 91 percent and increasing organic carbon content.

Engineered biochar with minerals could unlock new solutions for soil health and water cleanup

Researchers combine biochar with naturally occurring minerals to create more durable and effective materials for improving soil fertility, capturing contaminants, and delivering nutrients. Engineered composites show promising potential for agricultural and pollution control applications.

Biochar and beneficial fungi team up to detoxify toxic red mud and restore soil health

Researchers developed a system combining biochar with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to target specific pollutants in red mud. The results showed that each fungal species played a distinct role in detoxifying arsenic and lead, as well as improving soil health.

Turning crop waste into climate solutions: Biochar reduces greenhouse gas emissions in bamboo forests

A new study reveals that biochar can significantly reduce nitrous oxide emissions from forest soils, shifting them from a source to a potential climate solution. Biochar was found to suppress key microbial genes responsible for producing N2O while increasing the abundance of microbes that convert it into harmless nitrogen gas.

Biochar-based nanotechnology cleans toxic herbicide from soil while protecting crops

Researchers developed a nitrogen-doped biochar-modified zero-valent iron nanocomposite that rapidly removes harmful herbicides from soil and protects crops. The material also triggers the formation of an iron plaque on plant roots, capturing contaminants and improving crop health.

Baking the earth to cool the sky: How tailored biochar can dial down agricultural emissions

A comprehensive meta-analysis reveals that biochar functions as a highly active biological regulator, restructuring the earth to boost porosity and moisture retention. Biochar disrupts the soil's nitrogen cycle by suppressing specific enzyme activities, slowing down processes like nitrification and denitrification.

Turning waste into a solution: micro-nano bone biochar boosts rice yield and cuts toxic cadmium

A novel soil amendment made from animal bone waste increases rice production and reduces cadmium accumulation in edible grains. Micro-nano bone char alters soil chemistry and microbial community, creating a more favorable environment for plant growth and improving grain nutritional quality.

New insights into biochar reveal how to better capture phosphorus and protect water systems

Researchers have developed a calcium-modified biochar that more effectively captures organic phosphorus, offering a solution to reduce nutrient pollution in water systems. The study reveals how molecular structure influences phosphorus adsorption, providing a clearer roadmap for designing more effective materials.

Biochar particle size found to shape disease control in crops

Researchers found that the particle size of biochar impacts its effectiveness in controlling soil-borne diseases, with fine biochar acting quickly but losing effectiveness over time. Coarse biochar, on the other hand, provides a slower yet more sustained protective effect by releasing nutrients and organic compounds into the soil.

Earthquake scientists reveal how overplowing weakens soil at experimental farm

Researchers found that tilling and compaction disrupt intricate capillary networks within the soil, causing it to pool rainwater and form a muddy crust. The study provides a clear explanation for why tillage changes the structure of soil in ways that affect water retention.

Fiber-optic sensors reveal how farming destroys soil's natural structure

A new study uses fiber-optic sensors to monitor water movement through the soil, revealing that common farming practices can pool water near the surface, reducing its availability to plants. This can lead to crop drought stress and decreased yield.

Aged silicon-rich biochar reduces cadmium accumulation in leafy vegetables

Aging silicon-rich biochar reduces cadmium uptake in leafy vegetables, improving plant resistance to heavy metal stress. The material reshapes soil microbial communities, contributing to reduced cadmium availability.

Webinar: How to communicate your science to UK policymakers

A free webinar, part of the Sustainable Microbiology Policy Spotlight journal webinar series, explores how microbiologists can effectively influence policy in the UK. The webinar, featuring senior policymakers and parliamentary affairs professionals, will take place on April 1, 2026, and will be recorded for retrospective viewing.

Turning herbal waste into a powerful tool for cleaning heavy metal pollution

Researchers developed a phosphorus-modified biochar that can simultaneously immobilize harmful metals and enhance soil fertility. The material showed remarkable adsorption capacity for lead and cadmium, with potential applications in soil remediation and sustainable agriculture.

Where wells run deep, biodiversity runs thin

Conventional oil and gas infrastructure leaves a deeper mark on freshwater biodiversity than shale gas development in Pennsylvania, according to a new study. The research analyzed over 6,800 benthic macroinvertebrate samples and found conventional development was linked with fewer species and a decline in ecosystem health.

Biochar type shapes how water moves through phosphorus rich vegetable soils

Two types of biochar, rice husk and palm silk, influence water infiltration and leakage in phosphorus-enriched vegetable soils. Biochar slows water movement, reducing phosphorus leaching and improving water retention for crops.

Online forum to explore how organic carbon amendments can improve soil health while storing carbon

The 22nd Carbon Research International Forum will examine the benefits of organic carbon amendments for improving soil health and sequestrating carbon in agricultural systems. Researchers will discuss recent approaches to managing organic carbon inputs in soils to support both productivity and climate outcomes.

Modified biochar helps compost retain nitrogen and build richer soil organic matter

Researchers designed modified biochars with phosphorus and magnesium to improve compost quality by retaining nitrogen and accelerating humification. The study found that these materials reduced ammonia emissions and promoted microbial activity, resulting in higher nitrogen retention and improved soil fertility.

Temporal dynamics of predatory nematodes in Guam reveal effective biological control of Meloidogyne spp.

A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that beneficial nematodes, including predatory nematodes, play a crucial role in regulating pest populations in tropical soils. The research shows that these natural allies can suppress harmful plant-parasitic nematodes, leading to improved crop yields and reduced losses.

Pairing biochar with other soil amendments could unlock stronger gains in soil health

A review of field studies found that combining biochar with other amendments like compost, manure, or fertilizers enhances soil health by increasing water retention, nutrient cycling, and microbial activity. The co-application approach also improves soil physical properties and biological responses.

Engineered biochar could unlock more effective and scalable solutions for soil and water pollution

A new review highlights how engineering biochar with magnetic and mineral modifications can expand its environmental applications while overcoming practical limitations. Engineered biochars combine adsorption with reactive processes to trap pollutants, transform or degrade them, reducing the risk of secondary contamination.

Applied Microbiology International launches new report on improving soil health in the UK

The report highlights the need for an agreed definition of healthy soil, scalable biological indicators, and collaborative transitions to sustainable land management practices. It emphasizes the importance of building trust and aligning diverse priorities among all soil stakeholders.

Can your soil’s color predict its health?

A groundbreaking study finds that analyzing soil color indices is a scientifically sound way to predict Soil Organic Matter and offers a path toward sustainable, widespread soil monitoring. Digital color analysis reduces costs by 96% while eliminating the need for toxic reagents.

Organic soil amendments work together to help sandy soils hold water longer, study finds

A long-term field experiment shows that combining biochar with compost and sludge can improve how sandy soils retain water, reducing cumulative drainage by over 40%. The triple combination of biochar, sludge, and compost formed a more stable soil structure that retained water more effectively than any single amendment alone.

Iron, carbon, and the art of toxic cleanup

Researchers at Tongji University identified ferrihydrite as the mineral that effectively traps chromium while storing organic carbon. The study's findings provide a new blueprint for environmental remediation using nature-based solutions to clean up contaminated mine soils and fight climate change.

Protecting turfgrass from fungal foes

University of Delaware researchers have discovered a novel strain of Bacillus subtilis that helps plants resist soil-borne diseases and retain moisture. The microbe, UD1022, is effective in controlling dollar spot fungus but only when applied directly to leaves, not through soil treatment.

New study assesses potential dust control options for Great Salt Lake

A new collaborative study evaluates potential dust control measures for the Great Salt Lake, considering effectiveness, cost, water demand, maintenance needs, and ecological impacts. The analysis emphasizes the importance of long-term planning, sustained maintenance, and careful consideration of unintended consequences.

Seashells and coconut char: A coastal recipe for super-compost

A study published in Carbon Research reveals that a unique Ca-modified biochar can act as a powerful catalyst for the composting process, transforming pig manure and rice straw into stable, nutrient-rich humus. The innovation helps improve waste management in tropical regions, reducing nitrogen loss and environmental footprint.