Research from Morocco Links Soil Color with Organic Matter Content

Although scientists have known for years that darker soil often contains more carbon, a study led by Dr. Yassine Bouslihim from the National Institute of Agricultural Research in Morocco and published in Carbon Research demonstrated the validity of digital color analysis as in indication of soil organic matter content in semi-arid agricultural regions. The “colorimetric” soil testing makes the testing process easier and as much as 96% less expensive, while also eliminating the chemicals currently used as reagents in soil testing. The research team was able to achieve high accuracy in predicting soil organic matter content, and they say this new testing method could prove a low-cost way to monitor soil and help improve crop yields and carbon sequestration.