Gas diffusion characteristics of agricultural soils from South Greenland

Research reveals that soils in Southern Greenland's agricultural fields, such as those at Kujataa, exhibit highly tortuous pore networks and less developed structure, leading to low gas diffusivity—a critical factor for root aeration and greenhouse gas emissions. The study found that soil aeration requires air saturation above 35%, with dry bulk density emerging as a key controller of gas diffusion characteristics. Using the one-chamber nonsteady-state method, scientists analyzed 201 samples across six fields, calibrating models to assess total porosity and pore connectivity. These findings underscore the need for tailored cultivation practices in Greenland's warming Arctic environment.

Weber, P. L., de Jonge, L. W., Greve, M. H., Norgaard, T., & Moldrup, P. (2020). Gas diffusion characteristics of agricultural soils from South Greenland. Soil Science Society of America Journal, 84(5), 1606–1619. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/saj2.20114