An international team of scientists has refined a laboratory technique for measuring DNA-bound phosphorus (DNA-P) in soils, according to findings published in the Journal of Agricultural and Marine Sciences. The research involved collaboration between institutions including Sultan Qaboos University, James Hutton Institute, and the Environment Authority of Oman. Phosphorus is essential for plant growth and agricultural production, yet the world’s natural reserves are limited, making it important to understand how the nutrient cycles through soil ecosystems.
The improved analytical method simplifies the measurement of DNA-P, which forms part of the organic phosphorus pool associated with living microorganisms. Since microbes continuously absorb, transform, and release nutrients, this form of phosphorus provides insight into the biologically active portion of the soil phosphorus cycle. Researchers tested and modified the existing procedure using 32 different soil types from across the United Kingdom, finding that the updated approach maintained precision and sensitivity while becoming easier to perform and less costly to conduct.
A key improvement involved eliminating enzyme treatments that were previously part of the analytical process. However, ultrafiltration remained essential to separate DNA-bound phosphorus from other phosphorus-containing compounds and ensure measurement accuracy. Analysis showed that DNA-P concentrations displayed strong relationships with several important soil characteristics, including pH levels, microbial biomass phosphorus, organic matter content, and dissolved phosphorus in soil water.
The results suggest that DNA-P is more closely tied to active soil microorganisms than to stable, long-lasting phosphorus reserves, potentially offering scientists a practical tool for studying the dynamic portion of the phosphorus cycle influenced by microbial activity. As agriculture faces mounting pressure to use finite phosphorus resources more efficiently, enhanced measurement capabilities could support future investigations into soil fertility, nutrient management practices, and sustainable food production systems.
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