Soil, not fertilizer, is primary source of nitrogen gas loss in rice paddies, study reveals
A recent study has revealed that soil, rather than fertilizer, is the primary source of nitrogen gas loss in rice paddies. Conducted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the research indicates that 72-75% of nitrogen emissions come from soil organic nitrogen. This finding challenges previous assumptions and suggests new strategies for improving nitrogen use efficiency in agriculture.
- ▪The study found that most nitrogen gas emissions from rice paddies originate from soil organic nitrogen, not applied fertilizers.
- ▪Researchers used a novel methodology combining 15N isotope tracing with membrane inlet mass spectrometry to trace nitrogen sources.
- ▪Hybrid rice varieties can improve nitrogen uptake efficiency and reduce gaseous nitrogen losses by approximately 43%.
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April 28, 2026 Soil, not fertilizer, is primary source of nitrogen gas loss in rice paddies, study reveals by Chinese Academy of Sciences edited by Gaby Clark, reviewed by Robert Egan Gaby Clark Scientific Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Robert Egan Associate Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Editors' notes This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked peer-reviewed publication trusted source proofread The GIST Add as preferred source A microbial nitrogen pump driving distinct sources of soil gaseous nitrogen losses from flooded rice systems.
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