The role of soil cover in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of northern taiga ecosystems in Western Siberia

Abstract

The soils of the studied area function in different temperature regimes: under the influence of permafrost (Turbic Histic Cryosol and Cryic Eutric Histosol) and long-term seasonal freezing (Albic Podsol). Sporadic permafrost defines the differences in temperature regimes. All soils are characterized by the low production of carbon dioxide (an average of 160 mg CO₂/(m² h)), indicating their low biological activity. The lack of easily available carbon for microorganisms is detected in all investigated soils by the C_mic: C_org ratio despite the high reserves of organic matter. The value of CO₂ emission and the C_mic: C_org ratio are “site-specific” for the region of investigation and may be used as indicators of environmental changes. Cryogenic peat soils represent a unique natural object and ensure the functional diversity and integrity of northern taiga ecosystems in Western Siberia.