Biocrusts: Overlooked hotspots of managed soils in mesic environments

Abstract

AbstractBiological soil crusts, or “biocrusts”, are biogeochemical hotspots that can significantly influence ecosystem processes in arid environments. Although they can cover large areas, particularly in managed sites with frequent anthropogenic disturbance, their importance in mesic environments is not well understood. As in arid regions, biocrusts in mesic environments can significantly influence nutrient cycling, soil stabilization, and water balance; however, their persistence may differ. We call for interdisciplinary physical, biological, microbiological, chemical, and applied soil science research with a special focus on biocrusts of managed soils from mesic environments, to better understand their impact on overall ecosystem health and resilience, particularly with regard to climate change.