Influence of biowaste compost amendment on soil organic carbon storage under arid climate

ABSTRACTOrganic matter amendments have been proposed as a means to enhance soil carbon stocks on degraded soils particularly under arid climate. Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays a critical role in terrestrial carbon cycling and is central to preserving soil quality.The effects of biowastes compost (BWC) on soil carbon storage were investigated. Besides, changes in soil organic matter (SOM) and even soil organic carbon (SOC) in BWC amended soils following different applications were studied.The added BWC quantities were as followed: BWC/Soil (weight/weight (w/w) respectively: 1/8, 1/4 and 1/2). The different BWC amended soils were assessed during 180 days under arid ambient conditions and in comparison with control soil.Results showed a significant increase in SOM and SOC with relation to BWC quantities applied. This increase was relatively clear up to 120 days, after which a decrease in SOM and SOC levels were observed. Furthermore, results showed improved microbiological activities of the amended soils in...