How grasslands store carbon and feed livestock depends on soil chemistry
A new analysis of nutrient cycling in grasslands reveals the mechanics behind soil's ability to sequester carbon and sustain livestock production. For agricultural businesses, carbon credit programs, and land managers, understanding these soil processes is essential for maximizing ecosystem services while maintaining farm productivity.
Originaltitel: Soil symphony : how grassland nutrients flow, store carbon, and enhance ecosystem services
<p>Here, we discuss the current and emerging themes in soil processes related to grassland nutrient cycling. Soil processes involve four major components, namely addition, loss, translocation, and transformation of nutrients. The ability of grasslands to provide ecosystem services such as fodder for livestock and carbon storage is intimately linked to how nutrients cycle through the soil and between the greater global stocks of nutrients. We discuss macro- and micronutrients and conclude by identifying future avenues of research that require attention.<br></p>