Summary
This study evaluated whether isotope signatures and ecoenzymatic stoichiometry could serve as practical indicators of urban soil functionality across a gradient from natural to central urban sites in Italy. The findings indicate that δ¹⁵N in plant litter is a sensitive indicator of atmospheric nitrogen deposition, whilst soil δ¹⁵N and δ¹³C reflect accelerated nutrient cycling in urbanised areas. The correlation between isotope abundance and microbial nutrient limitations suggests these combined approaches have merit for assessing how urbanisation alters soil carbon and nutrient cycles.
Regional applicability
Whilst this study was conducted in Mediterranean urban systems (Pisa and Livorno), the methodological approach has potential applicability to temperate urban soils in the United Kingdom, particularly for cities with comparable NO₂ emission profiles. However, UK soils typically differ in parent material, climate, and vegetation (deciduous rather than evergreen holm oak), which may influence both isotopic signatures and baseline microbial communities; transferability would require validation in UK urban contexts.
Key measures
δ¹⁵N and δ¹³C in soil and plant litter; soil pH, electrical conductivity, total organic carbon, total nitrogen; β-glucosidase, acid phosphatase, and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase enzyme activities; ecoenzymatic stoichiometry ratios
Outcomes reported
The study measured stable isotope ratios (δ¹⁵N and δ¹³C) and enzymatic activity ratios in soils across urbanisation gradients to assess soil functionality related to carbon and nutrient cycling. Results showed that isotope signatures and microbial nutrient limitations varied systematically with urbanisation level and correlated with soil properties.
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