Soil organic carbon increase on conversion of native savanna to improved pasture in two regions of Colombia

Abstract

Background: There is limited knowledge on how to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks under tropical conditions. This study investigates SOC changes after converting land from native savanna (NS) to improved pasture (IP) land use.

Methods: Two acidic soil conversion sites were examined: (i) a poorly drained slope with medium-texture soil (Casanare [CAS]₁) and (ii) flat terrain with fine-texture soil (CAS₂). Another flat site was evaluated (Atlántico [ATL]), with fine-textured to moderately textured neutral soil. Soil samples were collected and analyzed. SOC stocks (0–60 cm soil depth) were estimated, with a complex analysis of variance analyzing pasture type and soil depth.

Results: NS to IP conversion resulted in significant SOC accumulation in two regions, with losses in one (CAS₂). ATL showed higher SOC accumulation than CAS. IP adoption led to SOC accumulation at depth (0–60 cm) after 10 years in CAS₁. Elevated clay content in CAS₂ favored SOC storage, while poorly drained areas hindered accumulation in CAS₁. Cultivating rice before IP at CAS₂ likely depleted SOC (0–20 cm), with 4 years of IP not restoring initial levels.

Conclusions: Adopting IP over NS can increase SOC. Grassland type, soil properties, and land-use change all influence SOC accumulation. These data inform sustainable land management for low-emission livestock production.

Keywords

deep-rooted improved grasses / land use change / native savanna / soil carbon accumulation / soil properties

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