1、Micromorphology of organic matter and humus in Mediterranean mountain

Humus classification is one of the most useful approaches when studying the dynamics of SOM in an ecosystem. Until now, soil micromorphology has seldom been applied to the determination of humus types, in spite of the close relationship between soil organic matter and soil structure.

2、Diferences in soil organic matter and humus of sandy soil after

Since there are a lot of knowledge gaps, especially in explanations how biochar can afect soil organic matter (SOM) and humus substances, we aimed this study at the solution of these questions.

3、Humus and Humic Substances

Besides live biomass and decaying dead biological matter, humus constitutes an important component of organic matter in the soil. Humic substances are heterogeneous polymers formed during the process of decay and degradation of plant, animal, and microbial biomass.

4、Humus vs. Organic Matter

While organic matter provides nutrients and energy for soil organisms, humus helps to improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. Both humus and organic matter play crucial roles in maintaining soil health and supporting plant growth.

3. What is the difference between “humus” and “organic matter

Humus is organic matter that has evolved. Humus through the process of mineralization supplies plants with the nitrogen from the soil. A soil without humus is an inert or mineral soil. That’s why organic matter should not be below 2% in an average soil (with 15 to 20% clay content).

Benefits of Organic Matter and Humus

What are the differences between Organic Matter, Humus, Humic Substances and Humates? How they benefit the soil and your plants.

Basic 11 Difference between Organic matter and humus

Organic matter goes further decomposition. 8. Humus does not go any further decomposition. 9. Original tissues can be recognized. 9. Original tissues cannot be recognized. 10. It is less darken in color. 10. It is more darken in color.

Is there a difference between the organic matter of the soil and humus

SOM and humus are distinctly different. SOM includes all fractions of organic material in it’s multitude of stages of degradation, whereas humus is only the humic substances present at the...

Humic substances: Structure, function and benefits for

This review advocates switching to use of organic matter (manure and compost) that contains vital nutrients for plant growth and helps restore soil health. Humic substances (HSs), derived from degraded plant remains and found ubiquitously in nature, are an important source of organic matter.

Soil Organic Matter, Humus, and Humic Acid: Unlocking the Secrets to

Humus can be divided into different components based on its structure and chemical properties, including humin, humic acid, fulvic acid, and ulmic acid. Here are the main distinctions among them:

Organic Matter Humus (OMH) is a complex group of high-molecular-weight organic substances primarily composed of plant and animal residues, microbial metabolites, and soil particles. It plays a critical role in soil ecosystems, including nutrient provision, soil structure regulation, and plant growth promotion. Below is a detailed analysis of its differences, applications, and characteristics:

Differences

1. Source: OMH originates from plant and animal residues, microbial metabolites, and soil particles. These materials undergo long-term biochemical processes in soil, gradually decomposing and transforming into OMH.

2. Composition: OMH is a high-molecular-weight organic matter with molecular weights ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of daltons. It consists of elements such as carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), along with functional groups like carboxyl, phenolic hydroxyl, and quinone groups.

3. Forms: OMH exists in various forms, including humic acid, humus, fulvic acid, and humin. Among these, humic acid is the most common and extensively studied.

4. Functions: OMH enhances soil fertility, improves soil structure, promotes plant growth, and increases crop yields. Additionally, it exhibits biological functions such as antioxidant activity, pathogen resistance, and pH regulation.

5. Properties: OMH has strong adsorption capabilities, binding heavy metals, pesticide residues, and other harmful substances in soil, thereby reducing environmental and human health risks. It also improves soil water retention and reduces erosion.

Applications

1. Enhancing Soil Fertility: Rich in organic matter and essential nutrients, OMH provides abundant nourishment for soil, promoting plant development and improving crop quality and yield.

2. Improving Soil Structure: By increasing soil porosity, OMH improves aeration and water retention, creating an optimal environment for root growth. This reduces erosion and mitigates soil-borne diseases.

3. Promoting Plant Growth: OMH supplies plants with nutrients and hormones, stimulating growth and resilience. This boosts agricultural productivity and farmer income.

4. Increasing Crop Yields: By enhancing photosynthetic efficiency and stress resistance in crops, OMH addresses food security and sustainable agriculture challenges.

5. Environmental Protection: OMH adsorbs soil contaminants, reducing pollution risks. Its water-retaining properties and erosion prevention contribute to ecological sustainability.

Characteristics

1. Stability: OMH demonstrates thermal and chemical stability, persisting in soil without rapid decomposition, making it ideal for soil amendment.

2. Multifunctionality: Besides improving soil health and plant growth, OMH exhibits antioxidant, antimicrobial, and pH-regulating properties, broadening its agricultural applications.

3. Environmental Friendship: Derived from natural sources, OMH is non-polluting. Its ability to sequester toxic substances further aligns with green agriculture and eco-friendly practices.

OMH holds significant value in agriculture. Rational utilization and development of OMH can support sustainable farming practices and address global food security challenges.