The role of microarthropods in emerging models of soil organic matter

A new understanding of soil organic matter (SOM) formation and stabilization has emerged over the past decade, highlighting the importance of microbial activity, mineral association of organic matter and aggregate occlusion of organic matter to SOM persistence. To date, the contribution of microarthropods to litter decomposition and SOM formation processes has not received due consideration and theoretical and empirical models should be modified to include how these organisms impact SOM protection. Here, we highlight the biological, chemical and physical mechanisms by which microarthropods influence SOM formation both directly and indirectly. Although more data is needed to quantify the impacts of different microarthropods on SOM dynamics, we highlight areas where inclusion of microarthropods in emerging models of SOM formation could reduce model uncertainties. [Display omitted] •Emerging views of SOM include matrix stabilization mechanisms and biotic processes.•Microarthropods influence SOM formation but are rarely considered in models of SOM.•New tools now enable us to quantify microarthropod contributions to SOM dynamics.•Inclusion of microarthropod contribution to SOM dynamics can advance new models.