Carbon stocks in the topsoil of broad-leaved forests in the Southern Urals

This study aims to assess the spatial distribution of carbon reserves in the surface of organic and mineral soil layers, in a carbon landfill. The studied areas are located within the broad-leaved forests of the Southern Urals.

The analysis of the forest carbon cycle was conducted in early spring on trees, shrubs, and grass vegetation. Soil gas flux measurements were performed using a Smart Chamber connected to a LI-COR 7810 gas analyser. CO₂ flux emission from the soil surface reached up to 493.2 G_f a day, under the tree canopy and did not exceed 471.8 G_f in uncovered areas (glades).

Thus, in early spring, the CO2 flux emissions from the soil surface in forest stands is higher in absolute terms, than in uncovered areas. It can presumably be explained by the difference in vegetation cover, along with the size, depth, and spatial distribution of roots from trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants.

Forest litter and humus, mainly composed of potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus, are critical for maintaining the carbon balance in forest areas.