Responses of soil microbial carbon use efficiency to warming: Review and prospects

Microbial carbon use efficiency (CUE) is an important factor driving soil (C) dynamics. However, microbial CUE could positively, negatively, or neutrally respond to increased temperature, which limits our prediction of C storage under future climate warming. Experimental warming affects plant production and communities, thus can have a significant impact on biogeochemical cycles terrestrial ecosystems. Here, we reviewed the present research status methods measuring response changes biotic abiotic factors induced by Overall, current measurement mainly include metabolic flux analysis, calorespirometry, stoichiometric model, 13C 18O labeling. Differences in added substrate types lead overestimation underestimation CUE, particularly when using labeling method. In addition, dominant community may also affect CUE. there still uncertainty characteristics different microorganisms. generally decreased conditions as microbes are subjected water stress labile organic matter much more depleted compared ambient conditions. contrast, considering that increases nutrient availability, enhance alleviating limitations for microbes. conclusion, complex than expected. The growth physiological adaptation environmental one main reasons inconsistence response. Finally, propose five aspects where further improve understanding warmer world, including new technologies, establishing multi-factor interactive experiments, building network experimental platform warming, strengthening studies at depths temporal scales.