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SPP 1090 AG 2: Effects of water-soluble organic substances on the stabilization and mineralisation of soil organic matter
Project
Project code: DFG SPP 1090
Contract period: 01.01.2000
- 01.01.2006
Purpose of research: Basic research
Practically all microbial metabolic processes involve the soluble phase since all living cells are covered by a water film, through which substrates have to diffuse or through which exoenzymes and other exudates are released. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) therefore plays an important role as a microbial substrate in the mineralisation of soil organic matter. Additionally, certain soluble carbohydrates or polyphenols may enhance or suppress the microbial activity to such an extent, that this will have effects on the turnover and stabilisation of soil organic matter. These so-called 'priming effects' will be studied with incubation assays using 14C-labeled model substances and natural DOM-solutions with different 13C signature added to soil samples or solid model substances. From the 14C- or 13C-content of the evolved CO2, a mass balance and a so-called 'priming index' can be calculated, which will indicate if the added DOM-solutions had a stimulating or inhibitory effect on the mineralisation of the soil organic matter.
Section overview
Subjects
- Soil science