Book Description

Fire-derived organic matter, also known as pyrogenic carbon (PyC), is ubiquitous on Earth. It can be found in soils, sediments, water and air. In this wide range of environments, fire-derived organic matter, represents a key component of the organic matter pool, and, in many cases, the largest identifiable group of organic compounds. PyC is also one of the most persistent organic matter fractions in the ecosystems, and its study is, therefore, particularly relevant for the global carbon cycle. From its production during vegetation fires to its transfer into soils, sediments and waters, PyC goes through different transformations, both abiotic and biotic. Contrary to early assumptions, PyC is not inert and interacts strongly with the environment: evidence of microbial decomposition, oxidation patterns and interactions with minerals have been described in different matrices. PyC travels across these different environments and it is modified chemically and physically, but remains persistent. This Research Topic explores important questions in our understanding of fire-derived organic matter, from the characterization and quantification of PyC components, to the transformation and mobilization processes taking place on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The studies compiled here provide novel and, often, unexpected results. They all answer some of the questions posed and, more importantly, provide scope for many more.