Abstract

Grassland restoration has emerged as a critical strategy for climate change mitigation through enhanced soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. This paper examines the pivotal role of soil microbial residues in carbon accumulation within restored grassland ecosystems. Microbial necromass, comprising dead microbial biomass and their metabolic byproducts, represents a significant and often underestimated component of soil organic matter. Through comprehensive analysis of recent research, we demonstrate that microbial residues contribute 40-60% of total SOC in grassland soils, with restoration practices significantly enhancing these contributions. The conversion of agricultural lands to grasslands alters microbial community structure, increases fungal-to-bacterial ratios, and promotes the formation of stable organo-mineral complexes. Key factors influencing microbial carbon contributions include restoration age, plant species diversity, soil texture, and management practices. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for optimizing grassland restoration strategies and maximizing carbon sequestration potential in terrestrial ecosystems.