Surprising Role of Manganese In Soil Carbon Sequestration

A recent study reveals an unexpected link between manganese-a naturally occurring mineral-and increased carbon emissions from high-latitude boreal forests. The study uncovers how manganese increases carbon emissions from boreal forest soil, over time, challenging conventional understanding of the role of manganese in the carbon cycle.

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Manganese plays a crucial role in soil chemistry and plant health in boreal forests, which are characterized by their cold climates and predominantly coniferous tree species. Manganese is an essential micronutrient for plants, contributing to various physiological processes such as photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and nitrogen metabolism. In soils, manganese exists in different forms, including soluble manganese ions and manganese oxides. The availability of manganese in boreal forest soils can vary depending on factors such as soil pH, organic matter content, and mineral composition. Generally, manganese availability tends to decrease with increasing soil pH, as manganese ions become less soluble and more tightly bound to soil particles at higher pH levels. Boreal forest plants, including coniferous trees such as spruce, pine, and fir, have adapted mechanisms to uptake manganese from the soil. Manganese uptake by plants is influenced by factors such as root morphology, soil manganese concentration, and interactions with other nutrients.