The role of soil cover in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of northern taiga ecosystems in Western Siberia

The soils of the studied area function in different temperature regimes: under the influence of permafrost (Turbic Histic Cryosol and Cryic Eutric Histosol) and long-term seasonal freezing (Albic Podsol). Sporadic permafrost defines the differences in temperature regimes. All soils are characterized by the low production of carbon dioxide (an average of 160 mg CO₂/(m² h)), indicating their low biological activity. The lack of easily available carbon for microorganisms is detected in all investigated soils by the C_mic: C_org ratio despite the high reserves of organic matter. The value of CO₂ emission and the C_mic: C_org ratio are “site-specific” for the region of investigation and may be used as indicators of environmental changes. Cryogenic peat soils represent a unique natural object and ensure the functional diversity and integrity of northern taiga ecosystems in Western Siberia.