Total Organic Carbon

Total organic carbon (TOC) is the carbon (C) stored in soil organic matter (SOM). Organic carbon (OC) enters the soil through the decomposition of plant and animal residues, root exudates, living and dead microorganisms, and soil biota. SOM is the organic fraction of soil exclusive of nondecomposed plant and animal residues. Nevertheless, most analytical methods do not distinguish between decomposed and non-decomposed residues. SOM is a heterogeneous, dynamic substance that varies in particle size, C content, decomposition rate, and turnover time.

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is the main source of energy for soil microorganisms. The ease and speed with which SOC becomes available is related to the SOM fraction in which it resides. In this respect, SOC can be partitioned into fractions based on the size and breakdown rates of the SOM in which it is contained (table 1). The first three fractions are part of the active pool of SOM. Carbon sources in this pool are relatively easy to break down.

SOM contains approximately 58% C; therefore, a factor of 1.72 can be used to convert OC to SOM. There is more inorganic C than TOC in calcareous soils. TOC is expressed as percent C per 100 g of soil.

Relationship to Soil Function

SOC is one of the most important constituents of the soil due to its capacity to affect plant growth as both a source of energy and a trigger for nutrient availability through mineralization. SOC fractions in the active pool, previously described, are the main source of energy and nutrients for soil microorganisms. Humus participates in aggregate stability, and nutrient and water holding capacity.

OC compounds, such as polysaccharides (sugars) bind mineral particles together into microaggregates. Glomalin, a SOM substance that may account for 20% of soil carbon, glues aggregates together and stabilizes soil structure making soil resistant to erosion, but porous enough to allow air, water and plant roots to move through the soil. Organic acids (e.g., oxalic acid), commonly released from decomposing organic residues and manures, prevents phosphorus fixation by clay minerals and improve its plant availability, especially in subtropical and tropical soils. An increase in SOM, and therefore total C, leads to greater biological diversity in the soil, thus increasing biological control of plant diseases and pests. Data also reveals that interaction between dissolved OC released from manure with pesticides may increase or decrease pesticide movement through soil into groundwater.

Problems with Poor Carbon Levels

A direct effect of poor SOC is reduced microbial biomass, activity, and nutrient mineralization due to a shortage of energy sources. In non-calcareous soils, aggregate stability, infiltration, drainage, and airflow are reduced. Scarce SOC results in less diversity in soil biota with a risk of the food chain equilibrium being disrupted, which can cause disturbance in the soil environment (e.g., plant pest and disease increase, accumulation of toxic substances).

Improving Carbon Levels

Compiled data shows that farming practices have resulted in the loss of an estimated 4.4×109 tons of C from soils of the United States, most of which is OC. To compensate for these losses, practices such as no-till may increase SOC (figure 1). Other practices that increase SOC include continuous application of manure and compost, and use of summer and/or winter cover crops. Burning, harvesting, or otherwise removing residues decreases SOC.

This Page Was Created Utilizing Text And Images From These Sources:

Total Organic Carbon, Soil Quality Indicators Fact Sheet- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service

Registration Open for 2026 Soil Health Schools!

The Coalition will host two Soil Health Schools in 2026! The West River Soil Health School is set for June 24-25 near Caputa, SD, and the South Dakota Soil Health School is set for Sept. 15-17 near Twin Brooks and Marvin, SD. These events are designed for agricultural producers as well as anyone with an interest in learning how to manage soils for resiliency and profit. The agenda features classroom style presentations by producers and technical experts from across the state and region, as well as hands-on experiences in the field. Area producers will share their challenges and successes with various methods for improving soil health, to an average class size of 30-40. Registration is open, so check out our events page to learn more!