Articles tagged with Soils
A UBC researcher's study found that commercial bio-fertilizers may not improve soil quality or crop yields, raising concerns about environmental consequences. The study also highlights the need for more knowledge on the impact of these inoculants on the land and potential invasive species risks.
A strategic mix of cover crops reduces nitrogen loss in the Chesapeake Bay, while also increasing yields in subsequent cash crops. Mixtures with a high proportion of legumes and a low rate of cereal rye are most effective.
About 7-6 million years ago, the Hadley circulation intensified, leading to drier climate, expanding subtropical grasslands and increasing mammal species that eat grasses. The research provides a new understanding of late Miocene ecosystems and their evolution.
A University of Seville study reveals the existence of microscopic life in saline soil, highlighting its potential to inform climate change predictions. The research identifies key factors influencing microbial communities, including salinity, pH, and metals.
Researchers found that in-soil placement of fertilizer resulted in less phosphorus loss from snowmelt runoff. This practice helps roots access and take up phosphorus, reducing its interaction with runoff. The study's findings aim to encourage growers to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
Researchers have discovered naturally occurring photocurrents in iron and manganese mineral coatings on rocks in China. These coatings exhibit stable photocurrents under steady illumination and rapid changes with illumination fluctuations, suggesting a potential role in biogeochemical processes.
Researchers from Finland and Brazil developed a method that uses both plant and soil data to produce a map of soil properties in Amazonia. The study leverages digital herbarium databases and fern species occurrence data to estimate soil properties, providing valuable insights for conservation efforts.
Researchers found that plants and microbes forge symbiotic relationships to gain access to nutrients, leading to the dominance of specific tree species in different biomes. This understanding can help predict how ecosystems will shift in response to climate change.
Researchers at UTA work with TxDOT to improve soil monitoring and predictive modeling, reducing slope failures and increasing road resilience. The projects also aim to enhance the transportation system's reliability and safety.
The study found major dioxins detected were polybrominated and mixed halogenated dibenzofurans, suggesting PBDEs as a source. High concentrations of PXDFs indicate these 'hidden' dioxins contribute substantially to e-waste-derived dioxin toxicity.
The study reveals that increases in soil biodiversity follow plant cover increases in less productive ecosystems, while acidification leads to declines in more productive ecosystems. These patterns differ from those observed in other communities.
In south Florida, a study found that only 20% of applied phosphorus is taken up by plants due to fungal processes. Fungi can convert available phosphorus into less accessible mineral forms.
Ascribe Bioscience has developed a seed treatment technology using ascarosides, signaling molecules produced by microscopic worms in the soil microbiome. The technology enhances plant resistance to pathogens at extremely low concentrations.
Researchers found that caterpillars ingest soil and retain a microbiome similar to the soil itself, allowing them to access 'voicemails' left behind by plants. This discovery sheds light on the impact of soil legacy on insect health and has potential applications for agriculture.
A team of scientists analyzed biodiversity patterns in the McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica, revealing that biotic interactions are essential for understanding ecosystem dynamics. The study found that biogeography and species interactions are stronger drivers of biodiversity than previously expected.
A recent study found that high levels of inorganic P-fertilizer can reduce microbial functions critical to crop health. Soil microorganisms from treated soils negatively impacted plant yield. The study suggests excessive phosphate fertilizer use may have lasting negative effects on crop productivity.
Researchers discover six new spider species in Colombia, including four unknown to science, and create new genus Stormtropis inspired by Star Wars' clone troopers. The spiders are well adapted to camouflage and burrowing into habitats.
This research project investigates how urban gardens impact ecosystems by analyzing soil health, microbe populations, water quality, and greenhouse gas emissions. The findings will inform policymakers and growers on how to make better land use decisions.
Researchers found that chronic exposure to realistic soil concentrations of imidacloprid affects solitary bees' mass, immature development speed, and adult longevity. Ground-nesting bee species are more susceptible to pesticide effects due to their smaller nest sizes and prolonged underground stays.
Researchers found that agricultural lime alters the strontium isotopic composition of surface waters and plants in non-calcareous soils. This can result in incorrect interpretations of prehistoric people's origins and movement, affecting studies on provenance and mobility.
Researchers have discovered that growing grasses alongside blueberry plants corrects iron deficiency, leading to increased antioxidant content and improved berry quantity. Intercropping with grass species has been shown to provide a natural source of iron chelators, comparable to synthetic treatments.
A new study explores how climate-driven evolution in tree populations changes their interaction with the soil environment, leading to reduced genetic variation and altered soil microbiome. Warmer temperatures result in earlier bud break and leaf-out, reducing genetic variation and affecting soil microbial communities.
Researchers tracked a new RNA pesticide in soils and found it degrades through enzymes and microbes, but also attaches to soil particles, slowing breakdown. The extent of this protection varies by soil type.
Scientists are working to map and understand underwater soils, which affect commercial, recreational, and transportation activities. Data collected provides insights into soil properties and their importance in habitats and ecosystems.
Researchers found nematodes produce distinctive chemical cues that deter Colorado potato beetles and make potato leaves less palatable. This could provide a natural alternative to chemical pesticides.
Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus have discovered that irrigation with lake water releases CO2 from bicarbonates, a natural process that has practical applications for agriculture-based communities. The study suggests that understanding this process is essential in combatting rising atmospheric greenhouse gases.
A new study found that collecting soil data at short intervals can increase the success of land reclamation, leading to faster regeneration and lower costs. By fine-tuning fertilizer and lime applications based on soil pH levels, teams achieved significant cost savings, especially in mountainous areas.
CABI will work with governments, universities, and research organizations in India and Ethiopia to share data on soil health, agronomy, and fertilizers, promoting better decision-making for farmers. The project aims to create national data policies and databases for improved access and sharing of agricultural data.
Prairie strips have been shown to significantly reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, and increase beneficial insect populations. By converting a small portion of a crop field to prairie, farmers can lower their financial costs while creating numerous ecological benefits.
A University of Vermont study found that farmers' spring and summer decisions on manure application can increase greenhouse gas emissions during winter. The research highlights the importance of considering long-term effects of management decisions, as agriculture is expected to expand in northern regions with warming climates.
A landmark study found forest soils need several decades to recover from bushfires and logging. Soils recovered very slowly over many years from these events.
A study from Indiana University predicts that climate change will lead to increased air pollutants from US forest soils, which can cause smog, acid rain, and respiratory problems. Tree species such as maple, sassafras, and tulip poplar are found to promote the release of nitrogen oxides.
Researchers estimate that saturated buffers, vegetated strips of land between tile-drained fields and waterways, could reduce agricultural drainage nitrogen by 5 to 10 percent. This approach is inexpensive and can be easily integrated with farming practices.
Researchers from Colorado State University and nine other universities are exploring best practices for strong, disease-resistant potato crops. The four-year project aims to enhance the environmental quality and economic viability of potato operations nationwide.
A non-biting midge, Eretmoptera murphyi, is found to release large volumes of nutrients into the soil on Signy Island, affecting peat decomposition and biodiversity. The single introduced species can lead to a three- to four-fold increase in nitrogen relative to areas without its presence.
Scientists discovered modifications in a sodium transporter gene, HKT1;1, which enable plants to adapt to varying soil salinity. The study used genomic analysis and sequencing techniques to reveal genetic variations that improve osmotic adjustment and prevent salt toxicity.
Anand Puppala, a professor of civil engineering at UTA, has been recognized as a Fellow of the United Kingdom's Institution of Civil Engineers. He is an expert in geotechnical and ground improvement, stabilization of expansive soils, and sustainable utilization of recycled materials.
A major soil organic matter compound, humic acid, has been found to degrade chronic wasting disease prions and reduce their infectivity in mice. The findings suggest that soil organic material can break down the prions, making them less infectious.
Researchers found pesticide residues in 83% of soil samples from 11 European countries, highlighting the persistence of pesticides in the land. The study suggests that mixes of pesticides are more common than single types, posing a risk to non-target species.
Researchers have discovered 16 novel giant viruses in a forest soil ecosystem, more than doubling the known giant virus diversity. These viruses were found using a non-standard approach that involved flow-sorting microbes into small pools, revealing a wealth of giant viruses previously overlooked.
Researchers found vast network of interconnected termite mounds in northeastern Brazil, covering area similar to Great Britain, with soil excavated over 10 cubic kilometers. The mounds are up to 4,000 years old and were formed by a single termite species that accessed dead leaves safely.
Researchers found that ants select medium-sized soil grains with quartz over feldspar for their structures, potentially altering palaeoclimatic data. This study highlights the importance of considering bioturbatory action in paleontological analyses.
Researchers are using geopolymers and sustainable cement materials to strengthen highway embankments in the Paris, Texas district. This project aims to reduce carbon footprint by replacing traditional materials with waste-based alternatives.
A new study suggests that previous applications of phosphorus fertilizers increase their effectiveness, allowing for more judicious use. This can help farmers save money and reduce environmental pollution by using only as much phosphorus as required.
Invasive Asian jumping earthworms alter US soil composition by creating nutrient-rich aggregates that lock up essential nutrients. Research by Jenelle Wempner reveals the physical effects of worm droppings on soils, with implications for controlling worm populations and understanding land use implications.
A new study has found that a native shrub can effectively share its water with millet plants, boosting production by over 900%. The optimized shrub system involves increasing shrub density and fertilizing the ground with organic matter, improving soil quality and yields.
A collaborative study analyzed over 5700 individual samples from 300 localities across Estonia, discovering 52 species of Myriapoda. Notably, six species were found to be at their range limits, while one was introduced by humans.
Research finds that long-term annual application of manure improves most soil quality properties compared to inorganic fertilizer. Manure increases soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and water-stable aggregates, while reducing soil electrical conductivity.
A new study estimates that climate change will force about 200,000 coastal farmers in Bangladesh to migrate inland due to rising sea levels and salty soil. The study found that farmers who convert from rice to seafood farming can expect a significant increase in crop revenue, but many cannot afford the conversion on a large scale.
Ground penetrating radar can accurately estimate soil water content by analyzing the strength of early time signals. This technology allows for quick measurement across large field sites, enabling farmers to optimize water usage and test irrigation system efficiency.
UTA professor Sahadat Hossain uses recycled plastic pins to strengthen MSE walls, increasing bearing and shearing capacity of foundation soils. The new method reduces excavation and replacement costs, improving pavement maintenance and reducing cracking.
The study reveals that botanic soil amendments with popular weeds like black nightshade and jimsonweed can effectively control nematodes. Researchers report a significant reduction in female nematode populations when treated with weed extracts, making these natural alternatives a promising eco-friendly solution.
Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed nanoparticles from green mango peel that can break down toxins in oil sludge through chemical oxidation. These plant-based nanoparticles successfully decontaminate oil-polluted soil, providing a novel and effective treatment for oil-contaminated soils.
Researchers developed a theory of relaxation in hexagonal ice, which can indicate water purity and quality through dielectric polarization changes. The study used spectroscopy to analyze ice under different temperatures, revealing non-Arrhenius behavior.
Researchers in Brazil develop an effective method to minimize lost coffee berries during mechanical harvesting, reducing soil compaction and improving profit margins. The study suggests using a subsoiler followed by a crusher as the most cost-effective solution.
Researchers have discovered the molecular mechanism behind quinoa's ability to store salt in its bladder cells, allowing it to thrive in saline soils. This unique adaptation enables quinoa to transfer excess salt to final storage sites without harming the plant.
A new study led by University of Kansas researcher Pamela Sullivan is analyzing changes in soil structure and their influence on water quality and availability. The research aims to develop mathematical models to understand the interactions between biogeochemistry, soil structure, and environmental conditions.
Researchers found that soil's health can be improved through agronomic management, such as cover crops and conservation tillage. This approach can help preserve crop yields and mitigate the effects of climate change on global food supply.
A new study found that ancient animal herders in Africa added to the ecological richness and diversity of the savanna thousands of years ago. Their practice of penning cattle, goats, and sheep at night created nutrient-rich grassy glades, or hotspots, that still attract wildlife and have increased habitat diversity in the region.
A recent study shows that common soil carbon measurement methods, including clod, core, and excavation, yield significantly different results. The core method was found to greatly underestimate soil organic carbon stocks, particularly in deeper soil layers.