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Un(der)explored links between plant diversity and particulate and mineral-associated organic matter in soil

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  • Šárka Angst

    (04103
    Leipzig University
    37005)

  • Gerrit Angst

    (04103
    Leipzig University
    37005
    Charles University, Benátská 2, Praha 2)

  • Kevin E. Mueller

    (Cleveland State University)

  • Markus Lange

    (POB 100164)

  • Nico Eisenhauer

    (04103
    Leipzig University)

Abstract

Plant diversity can alter soil carbon stocks, but the effects are difficult to predict due to the multitude of mechanisms involved. We propose that these mechanisms and their outcomes can be better understood by testing how plant diversity affects particulate organic matter (POM) and mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM) depending on whether MAOM storage is “saturated” and the total soil organic matter pool is limited by plant inputs. Such context-dependency of plant-diversity effects on POM, MAOM, and total soil organic matter helps explain inconsistencies in plant-diversity–soil-carbon relationships across studies. Further illumination of this context-dependency is required to better predict consequences of biodiversity losses and gains, and manage ecosystems as carbon sinks and nutrient stores.

Suggested Citation

  • Šárka Angst & Gerrit Angst & Kevin E. Mueller & Markus Lange & Nico Eisenhauer, 2025. "Un(der)explored links between plant diversity and particulate and mineral-associated organic matter in soil," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-9, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-60712-6
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60712-6
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