40-8 Climatic Drivers of Soil Organic Matter Decomposition.
See more from this Division: ASA Section: Climatology and Modeling
See more from this Session: Global Climate Change General Oral (includes student competition)
Abstract:
Loss of organic matter in soil is one of many processes that degrade soil. Therefore, it is vital to understand the processes that affect the rate of its decomposition. Over recent decades, it has become increasingly clear that temperature and precipitation patterns will change by the end of the century in many regions that are currently key to agriculture in response to increasing concentrations of CO2 and other greenhouse gases. These factors each have an important influence on organic matter decomposition.
This session will summarize key findings and the current status of research on the effects of temperature, moisture, and elevated CO2 concentrations on the decomposition of organic matter. There has been extensive research and debate over the past several decades, with little scientific consensus, but clarity is emerging as the debate refocuses on the role of temperature and moisture on the specific factors that control decomposition. Recent findings regarding elevated CO2 concentrations are indicating eventual losses of soil carbon, not the gains previously theorized.
The combined stresses will have adverse effects on agriculture and are expected to decrease productivity and affect the capacity of soil to sequester and hold carbon, which in turn affect the sustainability of agriculture and humanity’s ability to feed itself. Possible solutions for resilience will also be presented.
See more from this Division: ASA Section: Climatology and Modeling
See more from this Session: Global Climate Change General Oral (includes student competition)