{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Global evidence for joint effects of multiple natural and anthropogenic drivers on soil nitrogen cycling.
{Author}: Zhang Y;Cheng X;Terrer C;Choi WJ;Chen J;Luo Y;Ciais P;
{Journal}: Glob Chang Biol
{Volume}: 30
{Issue}: 5
{Year}: 2024 May
{Factor}: 13.211
{DOI}: 10.1111/gcb.17309
{Abstract}: Global soil nitrogen (N) cycling remains poorly understood due to its complex driving mechanisms. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of global soil δ15N, a stable isotopic signature indicative of the N input-output balance, using a machine-learning approach on 10,676 observations from 2670 sites. Our findings reveal prevalent joint effects of climatic conditions, plant N-use strategies, soil properties, and other natural and anthropogenic forcings on global soil δ15N. The joint effects of multiple drivers govern the latitudinal distribution of soil δ15N, with more rapid N cycling at lower latitudes than at higher latitudes. In contrast to previous climate-focused models, our data-driven model more accurately simulates spatial changes in global soil δ15N, highlighting the need to consider the joint effects of multiple drivers to estimate the Earth's N budget. These insights contribute to the reconciliation of discordances among empirical, theoretical, and modeling studies on soil N cycling, as well as sustainable N management.