Nitrogen budgets in US soybean-based agroecosystems

npj Sustainable Agriculture 2026 Open access

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Authors: Luiz Felipe Almeida, Ignacio A. Ciampitti
DOI: 10.1038/s44264-026-00126-z
Cited by: 1
References: 32

Abstract

Achieving neutral nitrogen (N) budgets is critical for soil health and sustainable agriculture. Thus, 31 studies were conducted for soybeans ( Glycine max L.) throughout the United States, determining N inputs, biological N 2 fixation via δ 15 N natural abundance method, and N outputs, seed N removal. On average, 53% of the N demand was met through N 2 fixation, while the requirement of 62% indicates a significant shortfall for achieving neutral N budgets.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics Soybean genetics and cultivation

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Sustainable Agriculture
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
4
Issue
1
Publication date
16 February 2026
Language
EN