Carbon Storage Potential and its Distributions in the Particle Size Fractions in Harran Plain, Turkey

Abstract

In recent years, there has been increasing international interest in increasing and sustainably managing soil C stocks to contribute to combating climate change and support food security. In this context, determining the C storage capacity of soils and examining the distribution of soil C based on fractions is of great importance for a better understanding of C dynamics. The present study investigated the storage potential of soil organic carbon (SOC), inorganic carbon (SIC) and total carbon (TC) in 16 selected profiles, and SOC and SIC distribution in five different particle size fractions (2000-425μm, 425-150 μm, 150-106 μm, 106-75 μm, <75 μm) of the Harran plain in Turkey. The results revealed that the particle size distribution in the surface layer varied in the following order depending on soil weight: 850-250> 2000-850> 250-150> 150-75> 75 μm. The organic C content of the soils is low due to the semi-arid climate conditions. Fraction-based soil SOC distribution was in the following order: 11% at 2000-850 μm, 15% at 850-250 μm, 21% at 250-150 μm, 23% at 150-75 μm and <75 μm 30%. Organic matter fractions differed according to the particle size distribution and the applicable soil management system. Stable organic matter content was significantly related to clay content and greatly influenced by the type of soil management used.

Keywords

• soil organic carbon
• soil inorganic carbon
• carbon storage
• particle size
• harran plain