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Radiocarbon enrichment of soil organic matter fractions in New Zealand soils

Journal Article · · Soil Sci.; (United States)

Soil organic matter was extracted using the classical procedure and fractionated into humin (nonextractable), humic acid, and fulvic acid. The masses of total organic carbon in the whole soil samples and in the fractions, together with their /sup 14/C content and /sup 13/C//sup 12/C ratios, were also determined. The following New Zealand soils were studied: a Fluvaquent, with experimental pasture plots, formed from deeply mixing subsoils of low organic carbon content; a Typic Fragiaqualf and a Typic Dystrochrept with moderately productive pastures; and an Umbric Vitrandept at two sites under native tussock and under introduced grasses of low productivity. The degree of radiocarbon enrichment of the different fractions in both topsoil and subsoil samples was examined in relation to differences in soil type, soil biological activity, and vegetation history. There was variation in the distribution and enrichment of the organic matter fractions both within the same soil type and between soil types, as well as between the topsoil and subsoil of the same soil. Differences appeared to be primarily a function of the stage of decomposition and translocation of the fractions through the soil rather than due to vegetation differences.

Research Organization:
Lincoln Coll., Canterbury, New Zealand
OSTI ID:
7098169
Journal Information:
Soil Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: Soil Sci.; (United States) Vol. 123:6; ISSN SOSCA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English