Summary
This field study on managed Swiss peatlands employed dual carbon isotope tracing to quantify priming effects—the stimulation of native peat decomposition—induced by corn straw incorporation. The research addresses a critical agronomic trade-off: whilst crop residue incorporation may enhance soil organic matter stocks, it can accelerate mineralisation of existing peat in drained systems. The findings provide quantitative evidence to inform carbon management strategies in intensively managed peatland agriculture, where soil degradation and carbon loss typically accelerate.
UK applicability
Findings are directly relevant to UK lowland peatland regions (East Anglia, Somerset Levels, parts of Scotland) managed for arable production. UK peatland soils face similar carbon loss risks under drainage and intensive cultivation, making these quantitative priming data applicable to inform residue management guidance for UK peat-based agricultural systems.
Key measures
Priming-induced peat carbon mineralisation rates; dual stable and radioactive carbon isotope signatures (13C and 14C); decomposition kinetics of incorporated corn straw versus native peat carbon
Outcomes reported
The study quantified priming effects—acceleration of native peat decomposition—induced by corn straw incorporation using dual carbon isotope tracing (13C and 14C). It measured the magnitude and timing of carbon loss from existing peat stocks in response to crop residue addition.
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