Articles tagged with Soils
A grant-funded project has mapped soil erosion intensity across 2.5 million square kilometers of agricultural land in European Russia. Researchers found that ravine erosion is receding, likely due to reduced thawed flow and increased absorption by soil.
A team of researchers at Kazan Federal University is exploring the mechanism of how microorganisms form and develop in response to petroleum contamination. They aim to understand whether hydrocarbon-oxidizing community structure depends on soil properties, and how new technologies for soil decontamination may arise from this research.
Researchers created a new generation of fertilizers using bio-decomposable materials that break down into innocuous products. The smart fertilizers provide a gradual release of active nitrogen compounds, reducing leaching and increasing plant biomass.
A recent experiment by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that native tree species outperformed teak in infertile tropical soils. The study showed that Amarillo (Terminalia amazonia) trees grew exceptionally well, accumulating biomass faster than teak and having excellent timber value.
A new method uses high-powered lasers to directly break down pollutants in contaminated soil, showing promise as a cheaper and more efficient decontamination technique. The process heats up the pollutant locally, fragmenting it into smaller, safer molecules.
Researchers propose a new approach to understanding soil organic matter's response to climate change and atmospheric chemistry. Soil microbes contribute significantly to stable carbon pools through catabolic and anabolic activities, which could lead to improved soil stabilization and renewal strategies.
Nematodes, tiny worm-like organisms, have shown the ability to survive in dry conditions for up to three years, highlighting the need for improved detection methods. The study found that nematodes can infect plant hosts even after extended periods, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures.
Research published in BMJ Open found that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) cause more severe injuries than landmines, particularly among children. IED victims are more likely to suffer multiple amputations, genital/gluteal injuries, and pelvic fractures.
University of Delaware researchers have developed new methods to evaluate the risk of subsurface phosphorus losses in US croplands, particularly in flat and artificially drained areas. The study uses soil data to improve existing phosphorus index models and provides a more accurate assessment of subsurface phosphorus risks.
Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University have designed a simple technique to quantify soil color using a low-cost digital device, such as an office scanner. This method reduces errors in soil mapping and organic carbon estimation, increasing accuracy.
Researchers found that the bacteria communities in the National Mall's soil did not change significantly before and after the renovation. The study highlights the importance of understanding how changes in the soil microbiome can impact plant productivity and health.
A University of Texas at Arlington civil engineer will model large-diameter water transmission pipes' behavior in different types of soils to establish modeling standards. The research aims to improve the reliability and economics of large diameter pipelines, ensuring a long-lasting and sustainable way of building drinking water infras...
Researchers found that high levels of silicon concentrations decrease insect growth and root consumption by up to 71%. Silicon helps plants build phytoliths, making them less digestible to insects, and triggering an immune system response. This natural defense mechanism could provide a sustainable solution for crop protection.
A recent study from Guam found that non-native Acacia trees alter the soil chemistry and root-zone nutrient budgets, causing collateral ecosystem deviations. The results contribute to ongoing global discussions about afforestation for revegetating tropical degraded habitats.
Researchers found high sodium and selenium levels in soil and airborne particulate matter from the Salton Sea, posing negative ecological and health risks. The study highlights the need for monitoring and remediation efforts to mitigate dust emissions from the shrinking lake.
Researchers developed a portable x-ray fluorescence spectrometry (PXRF) device to measure calcium levels in soils. The device provides accurate data on 20 elements in 60 seconds, improving field assessments for soil scientists.
Satellite data can optimize fertilizer use, protect groundwater, and monitor agricultural areas more efficiently. The DEMMIN soil measurement and validation site is a key player in this initiative.
Researchers have successfully developed a new method to analyze soil microbial communities and their role in the development of Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) disease in soybean. By profiling microbes, scientists found significant differences between healthy and diseased areas, suggesting that biological factors play a key role in determi...
Researchers investigated hydro-edaphic conditions in two savanna areas, sampling 20 permanent plots and classifying 128 plant species into 34 families. The study highlights the importance of conservation in this ecosystem, which has been rapidly modified by agribusiness.
Scientists have found evidence that the soil microbiome in restored Illinois prairies is recolonizing and recovering, closely resembling those in untouched natural prairies. This discovery suggests that restoration efforts are working at a foundational level, contributing to the health of people and the planet.
The study reveals that ancient Rapa Nui people consumed a balanced diet of seafood and terrestrial resources, with evidence suggesting deliberate management of agricultural crops. This challenges the ecocide hypothesis, which attributes societal collapse to environmental destruction.
A new web application provides historical climate data to farmers, allowing them to compare current year's conditions with past ten years. The app covers the Texas region and offers information on soil temperature, growing degree days, and precipitation.
A team of researchers from Binghamton University analyzed human and faunal remains to find that around half the protein in diets came from marine sources, contradicting previous estimates. The findings suggest the Rapa Nui population had extensive knowledge to overcome poor soil fertility and create a sustainable food supply.
Researchers found genetically diverse strains of C. difficile in soil samples from children's and dogs' sandboxes in Madrid. The presence of certain strains with increased toxin production poses a significant threat to human and animal health.
A new global erosivity map shows significant variations in rainfall erosivity across different climatic regions, highlighting the need for soil degradation mitigation and restoration strategies. The map provides critical data for assessing soil erosion by water, flood risk, and natural hazard prevention.
Researchers developed a long-term field experiment to monitor post-compaction evolution of soil structure, revealing projected recovery rates of years to decades. Initial results indicate different recovery rates for various properties and decreasing recovery rates with soil depth.
Scientists using LRO data identified bright areas near south pole craters that are cold enough for frost to be present. The analysis combined surface temperatures with light reflection information.
Researchers found that biochar application successfully reduced soil acidity and made heavy metals less bioavailable, converting them into less toxic forms. This locally sourced biochar can be used to prevent metal accumulation in soils near abandoned mines, potentially reviving degraded ecosystems.
A doctoral student is studying how soil microbes drive plant invasion in the Galapagos Islands, a biodiversity hotspot. The researcher aims to understand the role of mycorrhizal fungi and plant pathogens in shaping plant community structure and diversity.
Biomedical engineers use biological nanoparticles, a plant virus, to deliver pesticide to root level of crops, reducing leaching and runoff, increasing efficacy and safety. The technology has potential for widespread use in agriculture to control parasitic nematodes, which cause significant crop failures worldwide.
Soil column thickness significantly influences the transition from hillslopes to channels. Climate plays a crucial role in triggering arroyos exclusively found in south-flowing catchments. These findings highlight the importance of soil development in shaping erosion instabilities.
Conservation assessments for endemic earthworm species in KwaZulu-Natal Province are hindered by lack of common names. Assigning English names facilitates inclusion in environmental impact assessments, highlighting the importance of biodiversity preservation.
Research found that combining crop rotations with soil amendments like poultry litter can alleviate issues associated with continuous cropping. Incorporating corn once within a 4-year cycle resulted in 8% greater yields than continuous soybean.
Researchers found that rotational grazing with a fenced riparian buffer or converting pastures to hayfields reduced soil erosion and runoff. These practices lowered sediment concentrations, volumes, and loads in watersheds compared to continuous grazing.
Researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, discovered that tiny soil organisms create 'soil highways' for young trees, influencing their migration patterns. The study suggests that these invisible biotic communities could be used to encourage tree migration and preserve heat-sensitive species.
A team of engineers at the University of California San Diego discovered a simple, no-bake method to make bricks from Martian soil by applying pressure. The resulting bricks are stronger than steel-reinforced concrete and may be compatible with additive manufacturing.
Seeds from plants like Pelargonium self-burrow into soil using a helically coiled awn that responds to humidity. The team developed mathematical models to understand the mechanism, which has direct applications to current and next-generation robotics.
A new phosphorus index aims to reduce agricultural runoff pollution by focusing on field characteristics and best management practices. The updated approach addresses limitations of previous indices, providing a more practical tool for farmers and policymakers.
A new study finds that long-term exposure to soil minerals from walking barefoot in volcanic soils is the cause of a debilitating and disfiguring skin condition in western Uganda. The researchers found that people had been suffering silently for decades before symptoms became apparent.
Researchers explored three organic methods to suppress weeds: using cover crops instead of disks, turning them under, or flatening with a crimper. While some found cover crops to be effective in reducing weeds, the team also noted that unexpected weather conditions and soil fertility issues impacted results.
Cornell University scientists discovered a high-definition system allowing electrons to travel through soil more efficiently than previously thought. Biochar amendments facilitate this process, promoting conductive networks and growth.
Researchers from the University of Delaware found that tree trunks in upland forests emit methane, while soils and coarse woody debris act as methane sinks. The study used state-of-the-art technology to measure fluxes of methane and carbon dioxide, revealing a previously unaccounted source of this potent greenhouse gas.
A 16-year Nebraska study found minimal negative impacts of grazing cattle on corn stubble on soil properties, except for slight compaction. Grazing may even have a slightly positive effect on soil microbial community structure due to the addition of nutrient-rich manure.
A Virginia Tech research team found that manure from cattle administered antibiotics drastically changes the soil's microbial community, leading to ecosystem dysfunction. The amount of antibiotic-resistant genes in soil near manure piles was 200 times greater than in unaffected areas.
Research by Tongchuan Li found that ants create aggregate mulches in agricultural fields, which can retain water and improve soil health. The type of ant studied, Camponotus japonicus, is widespread in China and helps increase air and organic matter in soil.
Researchers aim to quantify soil mass balance, production rates and lifespan in agricultural landscapes with unknown data. Soil erosion threatens food security, costing the US tens of billions annually.
A USGS study reveals that changes in temperature and precipitation patterns may cause desert surfaces to become lighter, altering energy exchange between the planet and its atmosphere. This could lead to increased albedo, slowing the earth's warming rate, but also resulting in soil erosion and decreased fertility.
Soil microbes may hold key to protecting sorghum crops from Striga, a parasitic plant that causes up to 50% yield loss in sub-Saharan Africa. Researchers will map potential micro-organisms present in African soils to develop sustainable solutions.
The Ecological Society of America recognizes Diana Harrison Wall, Kathleen Weathers, and Debra Peters with the Eminent Ecologist Award, Eugene P. Odum Award for Excellence in Ecology Education, and Distinguished Service Citation, respectively, for their outstanding contributions to ecology.
Researchers found that letting cover crops grow longer produces the best results in suppressing weeds while also retaining soil moisture. The optimal timing is crucial, as over-flattening can lead to unwanted seed production, while under-flattening may regrow the cover crop.
A new study maps and classifies the earthquake shaking potential across most of the Las Vegas metropolitan area, revealing that much of the ground is stiffer and potentially safer than previously thought. The site classifications could lead to reduced construction costs and improved safety measures for buildings.
A University of Central Florida professor is collaborating with NASA to study the extraction of metals from Martian soil using molten regolith electrolysis. This process could produce oxygen and molten metals vital for future human space exploration.
Researchers found that snap bean yields were not significantly affected by no-till cover crops, despite the benefits of weed suppression. The study suggests that timing and management techniques are crucial for successful integration of cover crops into vegetable production systems.
A European research team discovered that when restoring nature, initial soil communities lack strong links between organisms. However, with time, these connections strengthen, enabling a diverse plant community to thrive. Fungi are found to drive this process, storing and using nutrients more efficiently.
A new USGS study finds that most abandoned oil and gas pads on the Colorado Plateau are characterized by reduced vegetation cover, even after 9 years. The DART approach used in the study suggests that land stewardship and environmental gradients can impact pad recovery.
Researchers examine how native grass management can enhance soil health and agricultural productivity in the eastern US. They focus on optimizing fertility and cover crop strategies for nutrient-efficient species like switchgrass and big bluestem, which produce extensive root systems that support micro-invertebrate communities.
A recent study revealed that climate change is expected to disrupt the balance of nutrients in mountain ecosystems, potentially leading to changes in plant growth and biodiversity. The research found that decreasing elevation can serve as a surrogate indicator for climate warming, leading to increased nitrogen availability in soil.
A recently restored floodplain along a Mississippi tributary removed almost as much nitrogen as a natural floodplain, significantly reducing chemical pollutants in the river. The study's findings suggest that reconnecting rivers to their floodplains can help improve water quality and reduce the 'dead zone' in the Gulf of Mexico.
A new study found that diverse shrublands in South-Western Australia thrive due to beneficial root-associated organisms. The research suggests that these microorganisms equalize growth differences between plant species, allowing for long-term coexistence in highly competitive environments.
Researchers found that plants' choice of microbial teammates influences a suite of plant-soil interactions, driving high diversity in shrublands. The study revealed positive and negative feedbacks between plants and microbes, with nutrient-acquisition strategies playing a crucial role.