Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 12, 2025

Author Spotlight: On-Site Biochar Production for Woody Debris Incineration in Forestry
Published on: January 5, 2024
Biochar-organic fertilizer synergy drives microbial-mediated C-sequestration and N-cycling in mixed forests toward
Hongzhi Yang1, Sutong Fan2, Mengzhu Jiang2
1College of Life Sciences and Technology, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004, China; School of Environment & Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, China.
Abstract:
Fertilizer management in artificial mixed systems is generally regarded as an efficacious approach to enhance soil fertility and sustain soil health. Nevertheless, research on the impacts of incorporating 600 g biochar (BC) with 1500 g organic fertilizers (OF) in the subsoil on the functional characteristics of short-term soil nutrient cycling in artificial mixed woodland soils remains scarce. This study investigated the effects of BC, OF, and (600 g BC + 1500 g OF) their mixture (OFBC) on soil properties and microbial functions in Cyclobalanopsis glauca and Pinus massoniana plantations. The results indicated that, compared to the control group, the contents of soil organic carbon (SOC) and total phosphorus (TP) increased by 248.33 % and 199.37 %, respectively, after the application of OFBC. Under the treatment of organic fertilizer (OF), the content of total nitrogen (TN) increased by 292.30 %. Metagenomic analysis revealed that BC-OF synergy (1) Upregulated C-fixation genes (e.g., cbbL): but suppressed C-degradation (celB, GAM1) and CH4-metabolism genes (pmoA, mmoX), promoting C-sequestration; (2) Enhanced N-cycling gene abundance (e.g., nifH, hao, nosZ), accelerating N-turnover efficiency beyond additive effects. Soil pH and β-glucosidase activity (increased by 1255.52 %) were key mediators of microbial functional shifts. The study provides critical insights into leveraging organic amendments to enhance ecosystem services while advancing sustainable forestry practices.
More Related Videos
07:22Author Spotlight: Unraveling the Role of Earthworms in Enhancing Mineral Weathering for CO2 Removal
Published on: November 10, 2023
09:38Single-throughput Complementary High-resolution Analytical Techniques for Characterizing Complex Natural Organic Matter Mixtures
Published on: January 7, 2019
Related Concept Videos
Environmental Applications of Microorganisms
Bioremediation
What are Biogeochemical Cycles?
The Roles of Bacteria and Fungi in Plant Nutrition
Inorganic Nitrogen Assimilation
The Carbon Cycle