Articles tagged with Soils
The UK Crop Microbiome Cryobank will preserve the microbiomes of six major food crops in the UK, including barley, oats, oil seed rape, potato, sugar beet, and wheat. This project aims to improve crop yield and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
A new review highlights the severe impacts of drought on global wetland soils, leading to irreversible changes and decreased water quality. The study emphasizes the need for better understanding and protection of these critical ecosystems, which support biodiversity and carbon storage.
The study found that urbanization leads to decreased soil acidity and increased carbon concentrations, with tree trunks shrinking by 40-60% in crowded areas. The school covered five climatic zones, combining teaching and research, fieldwork and expert consultations.
A new experiment reveals that fungal endophytes, which live inside plants, play a key role in invasion success and invasional meltdown in multi-species communities. The study found that alien species share fewer soil microbes with each other than with native species, making them less negatively affected by each other.
Native broadleaf trees planted in upland areas can absorb rainwater more efficiently, reducing peak river flow and flood risk. This nature-based solution is an effective and natural flood management tool that can be maximized with careful placement.
Researchers have discovered a new species of truffle, Hysterangium bonobo, which is prized by bonobos and has crystal-encrusted filaments. The find highlights the vast fungal diversity in the region and emphasizes the importance of indigenous knowledge in scientific discoveries.
A new study reveals that dust played a critical role in forming thick soils in the Levant region, enabling early human civilization to take root. The discovery challenges existing hypotheses on soil formation, suggesting that dust input was more important than erosion rates.
Researchers found that char can rapidly restore soil carbon and sulfate concentrations, but did not affect physical properties or crop yields. The study suggests char as a potential strategy to enhance soil properties and crop yields in low-carbon soils.
Research from Ghana reveals that lesser-used biochar application methods, such as spot and ring applications, significantly improve cowpea growth and yield. These methods are more effective than traditional broadcast and incorporation in promoting sustainable soil management.
Researchers found that the expression of species in a mixture can differ greatly across locations, highlighting the need for customized cover crop mixes. The study shows that low soil inorganic nitrogen favors legume species while a shorter growing season favors triticale.
Researchers have discovered a global phenomenon where microbes thrive on air, expanding the possibilities for microbial life beyond Earth. This process, known as atmospheric chemosynthesis, was previously thought to be unique to Antarctica, but is now found in soils across the Arctic and Tibetan Plateau.
Researchers found that tropical forest soils are highly sensitive to climate change, with a potential increase of 55% in soil carbon emissions if temperatures rise by four degrees Celsius. This could trigger further global warming and lead to the release of billions of tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
A new method using Vis-NIR spectroscopy reduces the cost and time required to analyze soil samples, allowing for faster restoration of ecosystems. The technology enables scientists to estimate concentration levels in impacted soil quickly and easily.
Researchers have discovered that wheat and couch grass can accumulate high concentrations of toxic metals from contaminated soils, removing them and making the soil safer. The plants' ability to phytoextract toxic metals makes them promising candidates for effective cleaning of soils using phytoremediation.
Researchers used a Skoltech supercomputer to perform sensitivity analysis on soil parameters for crop yield prediction. They found that certain input factors, such as fertilizer usage, significantly impacted crop yields.
Researchers have created a novel method using smartphones to measure soil density, which is crucial for nutrient and carbon stock management. The new approach involves taking high-resolution photos of soil samples with a smartphone camera and analyzing them using photogrammetry software.
A new study found large gaps in soil macroecological studies and a lack of data for most diverse tropical regions. Researchers highlight the need for a globally standardized sampling system to overcome limitations and support policy and decision-making.
A global meta-analysis led by UNSW scientists found that biocrusts reduce water erosion by an average of 68% and increase water storage in upper layers, supporting the world's shrinking water supplies. Biocrusts are critical for fixing nitrogen and carbon, stabilizing surface soils, and providing a home for soil organisms.
Researchers estimate a median 21% yield reduction for impacted corn and soybean crops, resulting in minimum economic costs of $587 million USD. The actual cost range is estimated at $0-$1.76 billion USD due to potential land area expansion.
New research highlights the importance of soil biological health and organic farm inputs for crop production in Australia. The study found that native vegetation acts as a reservoir for beneficial actinobacteria, which can enrich adjoining agricultural soils.
Researchers from the Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries investigated water distribution in the Demnitzer Mühlenfliess sub-catchment area. They found that vegetation plays a significant role in storing and releasing water, with forests having a drier soil than grasslands due to their root depth and leaf canopy.
A new study maps caesium and plutonium radionuclide concentrations in Swiss soils, tracing sources of nuclear fallout from 1960 to 2009. The research uses a caesium/plutonium ratio calculation method to distinguish between nuclear test fallout and the Chernobyl accident.
High fluorine levels in New Zealand soils are toxic to Rhizobia bacteria, which fix atmospheric nitrogen for legume plants. However, the study found no impact on the crops or livestock in question.
A new study reveals how climate change has enabled Sesarma reticulatum to thrive in southern salt marshes, dramatically altering ecosystem dynamics and clearing grasses that hold the marshes together. This has led to increased rates of creek formation and changes in interactions between predators and prey species.
A new study estimates that nearly a ton of lead dust settled within a kilometer of the Notre Dame cathedral after the 2019 fire. The study found significantly higher lead levels in areas downwind of the fire, exceeding France's limit of 300 milligrams per kilogram of soil.
A team of scientists investigated an unusual wetland soil in California, discovering its peculiar properties that misled initial classification. By analyzing color, water content, vegetation, and chemical composition, they applied a new method to accurately classify the soil as hydric, crucial for conservation.
Researchers analyzed medieval and modern case studies to identify restrictive soil and geologic conditions for tunneling. They found arid areas with low permanent water tables are most susceptible to successful tunneling, recommending monitoring for sound and vibrations to disrupt smugglers.
New research from San Diego State University reveals that spring snowmelt in the Arctic triggers fresh carbon dioxide production at higher rates than previously assumed. The study found that cold thaw accounts for nearly half of carbon emissions, offsetting summer uptake by vegetation.
The University of Minnesota has released the first food-grade wheatgrass variety, MN-Clearwater, allowing farmers to grow this beneficial crop. The new variety provides benefits such as reduced soil loss, fewer chemicals entering groundwater systems, and improved carbon storage, making it an attractive option for sustainable agriculture.
A recent study reveals that ancient farmers' use of charcoal to fertilize the soil created a unique ecosystem in the Amazon, boosting biodiversity and supporting plant diversity. The 'dark earth' technique has left a lasting legacy in the region's mature forests.
Research on crop residue management found that no-till and prescribed fire can affect nutrient availability and microbial activity in the soil. While prescribed fire showed some short-term benefits, its long-term influence is still unknown.
Researchers discovered that anaerobic soil disinfestation using diluted ethanol can make phosphorus more available to plants in Andosol-rich soils. The treatment increases the activity of an enzyme called alkaline phosphomonoesterase, making phosphorus more accessible.
Researchers investigated potassium fertilization effects on pears in a long history of fertilizer use to establish critical levels. Higher K doses resulted in lower ethylene production and respiration rates, extending storage life.
Research highlights the importance of soil biodiversity in achieving sustainability goals, including nutrient cycling, food production, and pollution remediation. Soil health is crucial for regulating climate and supporting human well-being, with traditional agricultural practices already leveraging its benefits.
Invasive native rush species are spreading across UK upland farms, threatening local wildlife and the livelihoods of farmers. The study found that rushes can spread by up to 174% in just 13 years, reducing grassland productivity and causing losses for farmers.
A joint project between TU Dresden and UNU-FLORES uses modeling to simulate observed changes in soil structure due to agricultural management, aiming to improve hydrological models. Field experiments showed that tillage had little effect on soil structure over time, while direct sowing improved water retention.
Researchers identified chloro-perfluoro-polyether-carboxylate compounds (ClPFPECAs) in soils across New Jersey, suggesting the use of these compounds as PFAS substitutes. The discovery provides insight into the environmental impact and toxicity of next-generation PFAS substitutes.
A new study reveals significant land-use changes in Bangladesh, driven by biophysical and socioeconomic factors. The research identifies areas where forests have shifted to shrub land and urban areas, highlighting the need for policies to mitigate their impact on climate change.
Root traits respond to soil characteristics, enabling trees to adapt to harsh environments and maximize resource acquisition. The study found that contaminated soils foster shorter roots, which can immobilize toxic elements like arsenic and lead.
A study found that revegetated urban green spaces have more native plant species and greater microbiota diversity, similar to natural environments. This can lead to improved immune function and reduced non-communicable diseases. Urban design principles could be influenced by the environmental microbiome to create healthier public spaces.
Reconstructing the paleoecology of the Paleo-Agulhas Plain reveals a diverse, verdant environment with abundant game and plant species. The lost landscape, which existed around 11,500 years ago, supported megafauna such as giant Cape Buffalo and giraffes.
Researchers developed a two-region soil-gas diffusivity model to characterize aggregated agricultural soils. The model accurately estimates gas diffusion and provides insights into greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers studied desert soil pores and found they determine water distribution and control a key resource in arid environments. The study's findings suggest that soil texture affects pore formation and reforming after disturbance, highlighting the importance of understanding these soils.
Researchers found that on days with little atmospheric moisture, afternoon rainfall is more likely over wetter soils, while on days with high moisture, it's more likely over drier soils. Warmer morning temperatures also contribute to the likelihood of afternoon rainfall.
A comprehensive analysis of a mountainous region in Southwest China reveals the driving mechanisms behind changes in soil chemical composition and distribution. Human activities like mining disrupt natural processes, affecting land quality and ecosystem health.
Researchers at University of British Columbia discovered that soil silicates can help control bleeding after injury by triggering clotting. The presence of soil in wounds activates a blood protein called coagulation Factor XII, leading to the formation of a plug and limiting blood loss.
Soil microorganisms decompose organic nitrogen, releasing inorganic nitrogen for plant growth. The initial burst of microbial activity after CO2 flush is a key indicator of forthcoming soil nitrogen mineralization.
Researchers at Uppsala University discovered that the plant had likely accumulated antibiotics from contaminated soil, not produced by nature.
Research investigated cover crop biomass production and soil properties in the eastern Great Plains. Early-planted cover crops had minimal effects on soil properties after 4 years, with low biomass production.
A new pterosaur species has been discovered in Morocco, belonging to the tapejarid group and characterized by its large crest and broad wingspan. The discovery is significant as it marks the first time a pterosaur has been found on African soil.
Researchers have discovered that certain plant materials can help store more carbon in soils and reduce erosion. Using two-step experiments with biomass crops, they found that miscanthus and willow performed better than sorghum in storing long-term carbon, making sustainable farming on peatlands possible.
Researchers from the University of Sheffield found that plants in Peak District grasslands share key nutrients to co-exist, leading to high levels of plant diversity. This sharing is known as resource partitioning, allowing different types of phosphorus compounds to be used by each plant.
Researchers found that salmon-derived nutrients decrease over time but are retained in soils, supporting microbial and plant growth. The study revealed contrasting nutrient cycling pathways between two soil types, with potential for increased plant growth in the riparian zone.
A new study reveals that soil has a significant role in mitigating climate change, with up to 25% of global potential for natural climate solutions. The research highlights the importance of agroforestry and improved agricultural practices in enhancing soil health and carbon sequestration.
Soil microbes convert ammonium to nitrates using oxygen and diverse processes, making nutrients available to plants. The study highlights the importance of understanding microbial roles in the soil nitrogen cycle, which can inform efficient fertilizer use and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers found that domestication of crops led to a decline in their ability to form symbiotic relationships with beneficial soil microbes. This loss has negative environmental consequences, including increased fertilizer use and pollution. Reintroducing genes from wild relatives could help restore these traits.
Researchers from diverse fields collaborate to understand plant-environment interactions, bridging paleoecology, physiology, ecology, genetics, and more. Key findings reveal how plants leverage their genomes to adapt to abiotic stressors and interact with microbes.
Researchers find freeze-drying method yields more accurate results for measuring soil N reactive gas fluxes and total emissions. This approach could lead to revised understanding of global nitrogen cycle mechanisms.
Researchers found high levels of biological activity in the gaps between oil palm fronds, providing microhabitats for soil creatures. This discovery may help preserve ecosystem functioning and offset damage caused by oil palm agriculture.
A new global analysis shows cover crops universally improve soil microbiome health, increasing microbial abundance, activity, and diversity. Factors such as climate, termination method, and tillage regime also impact the benefits of cover cropping on soil microbes.