Effect of pedogenic processes and formation factors on organic matter stabilization in alpine forest soils

Soil and organic matter characteristics were primarily explained by the parent material and soil type, while vegetation affected organic matter quality but not the total amounts. The labile and recalcitrant organic pool proportions were linked to parent material likely through its effect on pH and other microenvironment characteristics. The mineral-associated organic matter instead followed a pedogenic pathway, with higher percentages of stable organic carbon in illuvial B horizons from Podzols and Luvisols/Alisols. In the study area, therefore, the most developed soils were relatively more resilient for organic matter conservation than less developed soils, which are more prone to C losses.