We invite submission to AGU session (B040) In Life and Death: Microbial Mediation of Soil Carbon Transformations. Session ID#: 29224
This session will focus on the key roles of microbial mediation of organic C cycling in terrestrial ecosystems The recognition of microbial control over soil ecosystem functionality is causing ecologists to reconsider the origins and fate of soil organic matter (SOM). Because microbial processing of SOM influences its residence time, this topic critically intersects with our understanding of soil biogeochemical cycling and related soil- climate feedbacks. In this two-part session we will explore complementary perspectives on microbial regulation of SOM cycling: i) how microbial activity influences the quality and quantity of C inputs via metabolism, growth, and molecular transformations; and ii) the fate of microbial necromass and products as precursors of stable SOM. New methods are allowing experimentalists to probe the flow of C along this path, identify rate-limiting steps, and constrain the sensitivity of both to anthropogenic influences. We particularly encourage submissions that employ novel approaches (i.e., molecular, stoichiometric) or utilize gradients to spark synthetic perspectives on microbial transformation of soil C and the consequences for ecosystem-scale C cycling. Primary Convener: Kevin Geyer, University of New Hampshire Co-Conveners: Jeff Bird, City University of NY; Ashish Malik, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford; Alain F Plante, University of Pennsylvania Invited Speakers include Jennifer Pett-Ridge (LLNL) and Mark Bradford (Yale) Early Abstract Submission Deadline: 26 July, 11:59 P.M. ET Final Abstract Submission Deadline: 2 August, 11:59 P.M. ET Submit your abstract here: https://agu.confex.com/agu/fm17/preliminaryview.cgi/Session29224 Looking forward to seeing you at AGU in New Orleans 11-15 December 2017
