Microbial-mineral interactions regulate soil organic carbon accumulation in alkaline-calcareous soils across China

In this study, we investigate the combined effects of exogenous organic matter (natural humic materials) and active clay minerals (bentonite) on soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation in alkaline-calcareous soils, particularly those from arid and semi-arid agricultural regions. Given the unique challenges these soils face, such as low organic carbon content and the negative effects of excessive calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), our research aims to uncover how these amendments can enhance carbon accumulation by improving microbial-mineral interactions and overcoming the barriers imposed by soil properties.