Showing papers on "Organic matter published in 2022"

Soil organic matter formation, persistence, and functioning: A synthesis of current understanding to inform its conservation and regeneration

Abstract: Soil organic matter (SOM) provides vital services to humanity. Its preservation and further accrual are key to sustain food production and avoid an irreversible climate crisis. Here we present the processes and drivers of SOM formation and persistence within a coherent state-of-the-art framework. We posit that SOM forms via two distinct pathways depending on whether inputs are water soluble and/or easily solubilized entering the soil as dissolved organic matter (DOM), or they are structural. These distinct inputs form mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM), and particulate organic matter (POM), respectively. Both these SOM fractions have plant and microbial components but in different proportions, with MAOM being more highly microbial. SOM persistence will depend on microbial activity inhibition, the degree of its limitation and carbon use efficiency, and microbial access constraints, primarily due to association to minerals and occlusions in fine aggregates. Climate is the overarching control of SOM persistence, also by affecting ecosystem traits, when persistence is driven by microbial activity inhibition or limitation, largely responsible for POM storage. Soil geochemical traits are the overarching control of SOM persistence driven by microbial access constraints, particularly in the subsoil, specifically controlling MAOM storage. SOM affects soil properties (aggregation, porosity, and cation exchange capacity) which in turn determine the soil's capacity for functioning and ability to provide desired outcomes including erosion and flood prevention, plant productivity, and climate mitigation. The specific properties of SOM which influence its contributions to these functions are discussed, with implications for SOM conservation and regeneration to promote desired outcomes.

From energy to (soil organic) matter

Abstract: In this concept paper, we propose a new view on soil organic matter (SOM) formation: microorganisms use most of the organics entering the soil as energy rather than as a source of carbon (C), while SOM accumulates as a residual by‐product because the microbial energy investment in its decomposition exceeds the energy gain. During the initial stages of decomposition, the nominal oxidation state of C (NOSC) in remaining litter decreases, and the energy content increases. This reflects the rapid mineralization of available compounds with positive and neutral NOSC (carboxylic acids, sugars, some amino acids). Consequently, the NOSC of the remaining compounds drops to −0.3 units, and the oxidation rate decreases due to the residual relative accumulation of aromatic and aliphatic compounds (which are hydrolized later) and entombment of the necromass. Ultimately, incompletely decomposed plant residues will have 1%–2.5% more energy per C unit than the initial litter. The linear decrease in energy density of a broad range of organic substances by 106 kJ mol−1 C per NOSC unit upon oxidation is supported by experimental data on litter decomposition. Preferential recycling of energy‐rich reduced (lipids, aromatics, certain amino acids, amino sugars) and the microbial degradation of oxidized compounds (carboxylic acids) also energetically enrich SOM. Despite the high energy content, the availability of energy stored in SOM is lower than in litter. This explains why SOM is not fully mineralized (thermodynamically unfavorable), especially in the absence of plant C to provide new energy (e.g., in bare soil). Energy from litter activates decomposers to mine nutrients stored in SOM (the main ecological function of priming effects) because the nutrient content in SOM is 2–5 times higher than that of litter. This results in only 0.4%–5% year−1 of litter‐derived C being sequestered in SOM, whereas SOM stores 1%–10% year−1 of the total litter‐derived energy. Thus, the energy captured by photosynthesis is the main reason why microorganisms utilize organic matter, whereby SOM is merely a residual by‐product of nutrient storage and a mediator of energy fluxes.

On the origin and evolution of the asteroid Ryugu: A comprehensive geochemical perspective

Abstract: Presented here are the observations and interpretations from a comprehensive analysis of 16 representative particles returned from the C-type asteroid Ryugu by the Hayabusa2 mission. On average Ryugu particles consist of 50% phyllosilicate matrix, 41% porosity and 9% minor phases, including organic matter. The abundances of 70 elements from the particles are in close agreement with those of CI chondrites. Bulk Ryugu particles show higher δ18O, Δ17O, and ε54Cr values than CI chondrites. As such, Ryugu sampled the most primitive and least-thermally processed protosolar nebula reservoirs. Such a finding is consistent with multi-scale H-C-N isotopic compositions that are compatible with an origin for Ryugu organic matter within both the protosolar nebula and the interstellar medium. The analytical data obtained here, suggests that complex soluble organic matter formed during aqueous alteration on the Ryugu progenitor planetesimal (several 10’s of km), <2.6 Myr after CAI formation. Subsequently, the Ryugu progenitor planetesimal was fragmented and evolved into the current asteroid Ryugu through sublimation.

Hyphae move matter and microbes to mineral microsites: Integrating the hyphosphere into conceptual models of soil organic matter stabilization

Abstract: Associations between soil minerals and microbially derived organic matter (often referred to as mineral‐associated organic matter or MAOM) form a large pool of slowly cycling carbon (C). The rhizosphere, soil immediately adjacent to roots, is thought to control the spatial extent of MAOM formation because it is the dominant entry point of new C inputs to soil. However, emphasis on the rhizosphere implicitly assumes that microbial redistribution of C into bulk (non‐rhizosphere) soils is minimal. We question this assumption, arguing that because of extensive fungal exploration and rapid hyphal turnover, fungal redistribution of soil C from the rhizosphere to bulk soil minerals is common, and encourages MAOM formation. First, we summarize published estimates of fungal hyphal length density and turnover rates and demonstrate that fungal C inputs are high throughout the rhizosphere–bulk soil continuum. Second, because colonization of hyphal surfaces is a common dispersal mechanism for soil bacteria, we argue that hyphal exploration allows for the non‐random colonization of mineral surfaces by hyphae‐associated taxa. Third, these bacterial communities and their fungal hosts determine the chemical form of organic matter deposited on colonized mineral surfaces. Collectively, our analysis demonstrates that omission of the hyphosphere from conceptual models of soil C flow overlooks key mechanisms for MAOM formation in bulk soils. Moving forward, there is a clear need for spatially explicit, quantitative research characterizing the environmental drivers of hyphal exploration and hyphosphere community composition across systems, as these are important controls over the rate and organic chemistry of C deposited on minerals.

Geological Characteristics and Controlling Factors of Deep Shale Gas Enrichment of the Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation in the Southern Sichuan Basin, China

Abstract: Abstract To identify the factors controlling high-quality deep shale gas reservoirs and the exploration and development potential of the Lower Paleozoic marine shale in the Sichuan Basin, the sedimentary environment of deep shale was comprehensively analysed using core thin sections, scanning electron microscopy, gamma ray spectrometry logging, and elemental logging data. In addition, the geological conditions of deep shale gas accumulation and the effect of tectonic processes on the preservation conditions are discussed based on the experimental data of mineral composition analysis, geochemical features, and reservoir spatial characteristics. (1) The sedimentary environment changes from an anoxic water environment to an oxygen-rich oxidizing environment from bottom to top in the Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation in southern Sichuan. The deep shale gas reservoir shows overpressure and rich gas characteristics, namely, high formation pressure (2.0~2.2), high porosity (20%~55%), and high gas content (4.0~5.0 m3/t). (2) The favourable sedimentary environment has a higher hydrocarbon generation potential and deposits of rich organic matter and siliceous particles. During the hydrocarbon generation process, the rich organic matter generates a large number of organic pores and a large specific surface area, which provides the main reservoir and adsorption space for free and adsorbed shale gas. A large number of biogenic siliceous particles provide a solid rock support framework for the shale reservoir, thereby maintaining excellent reservoir physical properties. (3) Late and small stratigraphic uplifts result in a short shale gas escape time and favourable preservation conditions. Additionally, the small-scale faults and a high-angle intersection between the fracture strike and the geostress direction are conducive to the preservation of shale gas. (4) A high formation pressure coefficient, a sedimentary environment rich in organic siliceous deep-water continental shelf microfacies, and a relatively stable tectonic structure are conducive to the accumulation of deep shale gas.

Biotechnological strategies for bio-transforming biosolid into resources toward circular bio-economy: A review

Abstract: Biosolids are the biological organic matter extracted from various treatment processes of wastewater which are considered as a rich source of energy and nutrients. The most commonly used method for the disposal of biosolids is landfilling. But this causes the loss of valuable nutrients and creates environmental issues. Circular economy approaches provide a better way for utilization these resources in a sustainable manner. This allows maximum utilization of resources and many natural resources can be preserved and utilized for future generations. The present review provides a comprehensive illustration of biotechnological approaches for the utilization of biosolids. Various process strategies for the utilization of biosolids for the production of energy, fuels and value-added products are discussed. The utilization of this rich organic matter under circular economy has also been described in detail.

Pathways of biogenically excreted organic matter into soil aggregates

Abstract: Soil organisms are recognized as ecosystem engineers and key for aggregation in soil due to bioturbation, organic matter (OM) decomposition, and excretion of biogenic OM. The activity of soil organisms is beneficial for soil quality, functions, and nutrient cycling. These attributions are based on field-scale observations that link the presence and activity of organisms to spatiotemporal changes in soil properties and can be traced back to the formation of biogenic aggregates. This biogenic formation pathway encompasses a cascade of processes so far not discussed comprehensively. A more general approach needs to consider the activity and feedback loops between soil biota, the active release of biogenic OM by excretion, the interaction of biogenic OM with soil constituents, the formation of organo-mineral associations, and how these become incorporated in aggregated structures. Especially the function of biogenically excreted OM, which is quite complex in composition, is controversial as it permits or inhibits aggregation. This review analyzes the various roles of biogenically excreted OM may take as an aggregation agent. We will show that its function depends on the interplay of numerous factors, including environmental conditions, variety of OM producers, composition and availability of biogenically excreted OM, and type of interacting mineral phase. We consider biogenically excreted OM to affect aggregate formation in three different ways: (I) as a bridging agent which promotes the aggregation due to surface modifications and attraction, (II) as a separation agent which favors the formation, mobility, and transport of organo-mineral associations and inhibits their further inclusion into aggregates, and (III) as a gluing agent which mediates aggregate stability, after an external force provokes a close approach of soil particles. We conclude that biogenically excreted OM takes these functional roles simultaneously and to a varying extent across spatiotemporal scales. Hence, biogenically excreted OM is involved in the surface modification of soil particles, in the enmeshment and gluing of particles into soil aggregates, in the (im-)mobilization, and in facilitating the transport of particles. All that depends on the interplay of a hierarchy of factors comprising the local soil community's composition, the properties of biogenically excreted OM, and the conditions of the immediate environment. • Cross-scale consideration of the influence of biogenic organic matter on aggregation. • Mineral interactions with mucus, extracellular polymeric substances, and root exudates. • Critical discussion of biogenic organic matter as aggregation promoting and inhibiting agent. • Function of biogenic organic matter as bridging, separation, and gluing agent. • Biogenically induced aggregation is governed by the interplay of different species.

Pathways of biogenically excreted organic matter into soil aggregates

Abstract: Soil organisms are recognized as ecosystem engineers and key for aggregation in soil due to bioturbation, organic matter (OM) decomposition, and excretion of biogenic OM. The activity of soil organisms is beneficial for soil quality, functions, and nutrient cycling. These attributions are based on field-scale observations that link the presence and activity of organisms to spatiotemporal changes in soil properties and can be traced back to the formation of biogenic aggregates. This biogenic formation pathway encompasses a cascade of processes so far discussed not comprehensively. A more general approach needs to consider the activity and feedback loops between soil biota, the active release of biogenic OM by excretion, the interaction of biogenic OM with soil constituents, the formation of organo-mineral associations, and how these become incorporated in aggregated structures. Especially the function of biogenically excreted OM, which is quite complex in composition, is controversial as it permits or inhibits aggregation. This review analyzes the various roles of biogenically excreted OM may take as an aggregation agent. We will show that its function depends on the interplay of numerous factors, including environmental conditions, variety of OM producers, composition and availability of biogenically excreted OM, and type of interacting mineral phase. We consider biogenically excreted OM to affect aggregate formation in three different ways: (I) as a bridging agent which promotes the aggregation due to surface modifications and attraction, (II) as a separation agent which favors the formation, mobility, and transport of organo-mineral associations and inhibits their further inclusion into aggregates, and (III) as a gluing agent which mediates aggregate stability, after an external force provokes a close approach of soil particles. We conclude that biogenically excreted OM takes these functional roles simultaneously and to a varying extent across spatiotemporal scales. Hence, biogenically excreted OM is involved in the surface modification of soil particles, in the enmeshment and gluing of particles into soil aggregates, in the (im-)mobilization, and in facilitating the transport of particles. All that depends on the interplay of a hierarchy of factors comprising the local soil community's composition, the properties of biogenically excreted OM, and the conditions of the immediate environment.

Assessment of compost maturity-stability indices and recent development of composting bin

Abstract: Biological conversion of organic solid wastes to stabilized organic matter (OM) with high plant nutrient makes composting an ideal technique for managing solid waste. Present review summarizes the various bins manufactured around the world that are used for the composting of organic solid waste. The knowledge about various indices related to the composting process has become an important and wider area of research in the current time. The review therefore focuses on the various stability and maturity indices of composting process and lays emphasis on the advantages and uses of the matured compost. Composting bins are useful in converting organic wastes to useful compost at municipal level or at home. Organic wastes such as the kitchen waste like food scraps, food preparation residuals, etc. and garden wastes such as leaves, branches of trees, grass clipping, etc can easily be converted into compost with the use of these bins. This can be helpful in conservation of energy and natural resource, reduce air and water pollution and help in saving landfill space.

Clarifying the evidence for microbial‐ and plant‐derived soil organic matter, and the path toward a more quantitative understanding

Abstract: Predicting and mitigating changes in soil carbon (C) stocks under global change requires a coherent understanding of the factors regulating soil organic matter (SOM) formation and persistence, including knowledge of the direct sources of SOM (plants vs. microbes). In recent years, conceptual models of SOM formation have emphasized the primacy of microbial‐derived organic matter inputs, proposing that microbial physiological traits (e.g., growth efficiency) are dominant controls on SOM quantity. However, recent quantitative studies have challenged this view, suggesting that plants make larger direct contributions to SOM than is currently recognized by this paradigm. In this review, we attempt to reconcile these perspectives by highlighting that variation across estimates of plant‐ versus microbial‐derived SOM may arise in part from methodological limitations. We show that all major methods used to estimate plant versus microbial contributions to SOM have substantial shortcomings, highlighting the uncertainty in our current quantitative estimates. We demonstrate that there is significant overlap in the chemical signatures of compounds produced by microbes, plant roots, and through the extracellular decomposition of plant litter, which introduces uncertainty into the use of common biomarkers for parsing plant‐ and microbial‐derived SOM, especially in the mineral‐associated organic matter (MAOM) fraction. Although the studies that we review have contributed to a deeper understanding of microbial contributions to SOM, limitations with current methods constrain quantitative estimates. In light of recent advances, we suggest that now is a critical time to re‐evaluate long‐standing methods, clearly define their limitations, and develop a strategic plan for improving the quantification of plant‐ and microbial‐derived SOM. From our synthesis, we outline key questions and challenges for future research on the mechanisms of SOM formation and stabilization from plant and microbial pathways.

Ecological networks of dissolved organic matter and microorganisms under global change

Abstract: Microbes regulate the composition and turnover of organic matter. Here we developed a framework called Energy-Diversity-Trait integrative Analysis to quantify how dissolved organic matter and microbes interact along global change drivers of temperature and nutrient enrichment. Negative and positive interactions suggest decomposition and production processes of organic matter, respectively. We applied this framework to manipulative field experiments on mountainsides in subarctic and subtropical climates. In both climates, negative interactions of bipartite networks were more specialized than positive interactions, showing fewer interactions between chemical molecules and bacterial taxa. Nutrient enrichment promoted specialization of positive interactions, but decreased specialization of negative interactions, indicating that organic matter was more vulnerable to decomposition by a greater range of bacteria, particularly at warmer temperatures in the subtropical climate. These two global change drivers influenced specialization of negative interactions most strongly via molecular traits, while molecular traits and bacterial diversity similarly affected specialization of positive interactions.