The Microbial Necrobiome Involved in the Soil Decomposition Process

Abstract

Soil microorganisms play a key role in carbon and nutrient cycling processes, which includes the creation and decomposition of soil organic matter (SOM). At the same time, microorganisms use organic C as an energy source, for their development, and to support their functions. Based on our literature search we identified only one model proposed to date for necromass cycle which includes four key stages of the necromass continuum: production, recycling, stabilization, and destabilization. We further scrutinized factors to better understand/explain the processes related to this vital cycle. Microbial necromass is a significant and enduring part of the soil organic carbon (SOC), which is the primary C reservoir in terrestrial ecosystems. Assessing microbial necromass C stocks and understanding how they respond to global changes has become a standard approach in soil C cycle research. Nevertheless, the conventional proxies used to estimate necromass C levels do not provide insights into the dynamic processes and transformations that occur within the soil, ultimately shaping the persistence of microbial necromass.