Comparison and analysis of three estimation methods for soil carbon sequestration potential in the Ebinur Lake Wetland, China

Based on soil under seven vegetation types, the carbon sequestration potential in the Ebinur Lake wetland was estimated using the maximum value method, the saturation value method, and the classification and grading method. Results indicated that: 1) Soil carbon sequestration results for the top 20 cm soil layer were about 1.88 Mt using the maximum value method; the middle level standard of the classification and grading method result was 1.71 Mt. 2) Soil carbon sequestration potential in the top 20 cm layer under different vegetation types, evaluated using the saturation value method and the classification-grading method, ranged from 0.45 to 0.67 Mt, accounting for about 5/16 of the ideal carbon sequestration potential. 3) Carbon sequestration potential calculated using the saturation method and the classification method (middle level standard), combining the soil organic carbon increment under different vegetation types in Ebinur Lake wetland, recorded an average growth rate of soil organic carbon around 0.7-1 kg/(hm(2)center dot a). Time required to reach its carbon sequestration potential was 41 to 144 a. These results indicate that soil organic carbon content dynamically changes, and different forms of land use affect soil organic carbon content. The potential and ability of soil carbon sequestration and its mechanism of dynamic change are investigated, providing a scientific basis for understanding regional carbon cycle and climate change in wetlands.