Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 3 — Observational / field trialPeer-reviewed

Application of a triple 15N tracing technique to elucidate N transformations in a UK grassland soil

Nadine Loick, E. R. Dixon, G. Peter Matthews, Christoph Müller, Verónica Ciganda, María López‐Aizpún, Miguel A. Repullo, L. M. Cardenas

Geoderma · 2020

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Summary

This field study applied an advanced triple 15N isotopic tracing method to simultaneously quantify distinct nitrogen transformation pathways in UK grassland soil, providing refined rate estimates for mineralisation, nitrification, and denitrification. The technique enables more precise partitioning of soil N cycling processes than conventional single-tracer approaches. As suggested by the authors, broader applicability would benefit from validation across contrasting soil types and management contexts to support improved N management in grassland-based farming systems.

UK applicability

The study was conducted on UK grassland, making the findings directly applicable to UK grassland-based livestock farming systems. The methodology provides a tool for refining nitrogen management practices on British farms, though site-specific validation may be needed across different soil types and climatic regions within the UK.

Key measures

Rates of nitrogen mineralisation, nitrification, and denitrification as measured by triple 15N isotopic labelling and tracing

Outcomes reported

The study quantified nitrogen mineralisation, nitrification, and denitrification rates in grassland soil using a triple 15N isotopic tracing technique. The methodology provided simultaneous, refined estimates of distinct N transformation pathways under field conditions.

Theme
Farming systems, soils & land use
Subject
Soil fertility & nutrient management
Study type
Research
Study design
Field trial
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
United Kingdom
System type
Pasture-based livestock
DOI
10.1016/j.geoderma.2020.114844
Catalogue ID
BFmowc1zyw-rzdz9o

Topic tags

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