Impact of biomass burning on soil microorganisms and plant metabolites: A view from molecular distributions of atmospheric hydroxy fatty acids over Mount Tai

Biomass burning events (BBEs) significantly impact soil microorganisms and plant metabolites, as evidenced by increased concentrations of hydroxy fatty acids (FAs) during high BBE periods over Mount Tai. The study found that BBEs enhance the atmospheric presence of epicuticular waxes, soil microbes, and biomass combustion tracers like levoglucosan and endotoxin. While relative abundances of hydroxy FAs remained consistent between high and low BBE periods, their absolute concentrations spiked during intense burning, indicating a strong association with agricultural waste combustion and dust re-suspension. Back trajectory analysis further revealed the role of BBEs in transporting bacteria and plant metabolites across regions. This research highlights the complex interactions between biomass burning, microbial activity, and atmospheric chemistry, offering insights into the broader environmental impacts of agricultural practices.

Tyagi, P., Kawamura, K., Fu, P., Bikkina, S., Kanaya, Y., & Wang, Z. (2016). Impact of biomass burning on soil microorganisms and plant metabolites: A view from molecular distributions of atmospheric hydroxy fatty acids over Mount Tai. Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences, 121(10), 2684–2699. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/2016jg003324