Soil organic carbon and nitrogen accumulation rates in cold and alpine environments over 1 Ma

摘要: Abstract Using published and new chronosequence datasets from the European Alps Wind River Range (Rocky Mountains, USA), we report for first time a of more than 1 Ma soil organic carbon, nitrogen matter (SOM) fractions alpine soils. The investigated parameters include total carbon as well stable (resistant to H2O2 oxidation) C N fractions. Time trends were analysed are reported on basis stocks concentrations. accumulation rates strongly decreased with increasing age. Differences in between might be attributed factor climate. For drier Range, an asymptotic value about 15 kg C m− 2 was reached after 15 ky while 20–25 kg C measured moister 3 ky. difference two regions less obvious. both areas, range 0.5–2 kg N m− 2. exponential decay model, steady state (stable total) concentrations topsoil seemed sequestration org. soils can reach very high values young whereas old several orders magnitude lower. Old often integrate cold warm phases different vegetation types. Nonetheless, seems dominant covers track other factors