The effect of altitude on soil organic carbon content in semi-arid mediterranean climate

One of the most effective means in combating climate change and desertification is soil organic carbon (SOC) management. However, land use puts a high pressure to fragile SOC pools particularly semi-arid environments where decomposition rate due low moisture. Therefore, at higher elevations Mediterranean Basin with cooler temperature than coastal plains better moisture contents. Agricultural on highlands has increased recent years because relatively water requirement crops. The purpose this study analyze determine dynamics relation variations physical chemical characteristics from different elevations, ranging 64 meters 756 climate. revealed decreases versus altitude increases that varied 24.7 38.7 t ha-1 correlation coefficient 0.527. main driver decreasing by elevation probably displacing fine particles surface horizons accelerated erosion sloping cultivated lands altitudes. As result, it necessary focus both plant pattern along management techniques for enhancing matter agricultural production elevations.