Fire Impact on Carbon Pools and Basic Properties of Retisols in Native Spruce Forests of the European North and Central Siberia of Russia

Fires play an important role in the modern dynamics of boreal ecosystems. The article presents results studying effect old fires on soils and soil organic matter (SOM) native spruce forests that were last affected by previous 100 to 200 years. studies carried out European north-east Russia (Komi Republic) Central Siberia (Krasnoyarsk region). objects study typical Glossic Stagnic Retisol (Siltic, Cutanic). time after fire was determined dendrochronological methods. Data content water-soluble densimetric fractions obtained; carbon nitrogen stocks calculated. polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) established characterize fires. Pyrogenic carbonaceous inclusions morphologically diagnosed years fire. In this regard, it is proposed distinguish a “pyrogenic” subtype for with pronounced signs pyrogenesis. Carbon Komi Republic varied from 5.7 15.7 kg C m?2, Krasnoyarsk region had accumulation 6.9–12.5 m?2. contribution pyrogenic horizon Epyr total 9–45%. It suggested (PyC) can accumulate light (fPOM<1.6 oPOM<1.6). analysis PAH showed their high concentrations upper mineral horizons studied (24 605 ng g?1). coefficient FLA (fluoranthene)/(FLA+PYR(pyrene)) most useful diagnose origin PAHs Retisols.