Transformation and Sequestration of Total Organic Carbon in Black Soil under Different Fertilization Regimes with Straw Carbon Inputs

Abstract

In the context of the carbon peak and carbon-neutral era, it is crucial to effectively utilize maize straw as a resource for achieving carbon (C) sequestration and emission reduction in rural agriculture. Maize straw carbon undergoes two processes after being added to the soil: mineralization (decomposition) and humification (synthesis) by soil animals and microorganisms. These processes contribute to the reintegration of carbon into the agroecosystem’s carbon cycle. However, understanding of the transformation and stabilization of straw carbon, as well as the differences in C fixation capacity in soils with various fertilization treatments in black soils, remains limited. This study aims to quantify the relationship between straw carbon input and organic carbon sequestration in various fertilization treatments of black soil. Based on a long-term positional fertilization trial (45 years) in black soil, 13C-labeled maize straw (1.5 g in 120 g of dry soil) was applied and combined with an in situ incubation method using carborundum tubes. Throughout the 360-day trial, we observed the influence of fertilization on soil total organic C levels, organic carbon δ13C values, maize straw addition rate, and straw C fixation capacity. The decomposition of straw was most prominent during the initial 60 days of the incubation period, followed by a gradual decrease in the rate of decomposition. Compared with day 0, the SOC δ13C value and straw C residue rate were highest in the no-fertilization treatment (CK) after 360 days of incubation. The amount of organic carbon transformed and fixed in the soil was significantly higher in the organic fertilizer treatment (M) compared to other treatments, highlighting the stronger decomposition, transformation, and carbon fixation capacity of straw carbon in the M treatment. Moreover, the highest carbon storage of 43.23 Mg·ha−1 was observed in the M fertilization treatment after 360 days, which was significantly different from other treatments (p < 0.05). The study demonstrates that soil with low fertility exhibits increased sequestration potential for straw carbon. Additionally, organic fertilizer input would increase soil organic carbon storage and facilitate straw carbon conversion.