Journal of Soil Future Research · 2025
Biochar-Induced Changes in Soil Aggregate Stability and Microbial Carbon Dynamics in Triticum aestivum Under Long-Term Organic–Inorganic Fertilization
Zhang, G.
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Biochar-Induced Changes in Soil Aggregate Stability and Micr…
Abstract
Background: Soil aggregate stability and microbial carbon dynamics are essential for maintaining soil health and sustainable crop productivity. Biochar has been recognized as a promising amendment for improving soil structure and enhancing carbon sequestration. Objectives: This study evaluated the effects of biochar, applied alone or with long-term organic–inorganic fertilization, on soil aggregate stability, microbial carbon dynamics, and organic carbon stabilization in wheat production systems. Methods: Field and laboratory experiments were conducted using ^13C tracing, phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis, soil enzyme assays, multi-omics approaches, and statistical analyses including structural equation modelling (SEM) and redundancy analysis (RDA). Results: Biochar increased water-stable macroaggregates by 18–32% and microbial biomass carbon by 24% compared with unamended soils. Combined fertilization further enhanced stable humic substance accumulation and reduced carbon mineralization by 15–22%. Improved aggregate stability was associated with organo-mineral interactions and enhanced fungal activity. Conclusion: Biochar-integrated fertilization significantly improves soil structure, microbial carbon utilization, and carbon sequestration in wheat agroecosystems, providing a sustainable strategy for long-term soil fertility and productivity.
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Background: Soil aggregate stability and microbial carbon dynamics are essential for maintaining soil health and sustainable crop productivity. Biochar has been recognized as a promising amendment for improving soil structure and enhancing carbon sequestration. Objectives: This study evaluated the effects of biochar, applied alone or with long-term organic–inorganic fertilization, on soil aggregate stability, microbial carbon dynamics, and organic carbon stabilization in wheat production systems. Methods: Field and laboratory experiments were conducted using ^13C tracing, phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis, soil enzyme assays, multi-omics approaches, and statistical analyses including structural equation modelling (SEM) and redundancy analysis (RDA). Results: Biochar increased water-stable macroaggregates by 18–32% and microbial biomass carbon by 24% compared with unamended soils. Combined fertilization further enhanced stable humic substance accumulation and reduced carbon mineralization by 15–22%. Improved aggregate stability was associated with organo-mineral interactions and enhanced fungal activity. Conclusion: Biochar-integrated fertilization significantly improves soil structure, microbial carbon utilization, and carbon sequestration in wheat agroecosystems, providing a sustainable strategy for long-term soil fertility and productivity.
Background: Soil aggregate stability and microbial carbon dynamics are essential for maintaining soil health and sustainable crop productivity. Biochar has been recognized as a promising amendment for improving soil structure and enhancing carbon sequestration. Objectives: This study evaluated the effects of biochar, applied alone or with long-term organic–inorganic fertilization, on soil aggregate stability, microbial carbon dynamics, and organic carbon stabilization in wheat production systems. Methods: Field and laboratory experiments were conducted using ^13C tracing, phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis, soil enzyme assays, multi-omics approaches, and statistical analyses including structural equation modelling (SEM) and redundancy analysis (RDA). Results: Biochar increased water-stable macroaggregates by 18–32% and microbial biomass carbon by 24% compared with unamended soils. Combined fertilization further enhanced stable humic substance accumulation and reduced carbon mineralization by 15–22%. Improved aggregate stability was associated with organo-mineral interactions and enhanced fungal activity. Conclusion: Biochar-integrated fertilization significantly improves soil structure, microbial carbon utilization, and carbon sequestration in wheat agroecosystems, providing a sustainable strategy for long-term soil fertility and productivity.