Search Results (202)

Greenhouses have positively impacted plant production by allowing the cultivation of different crops per year. However, the accumulation of agricultural plastics, potentially contaminated with agrochemicals, raises environmental concerns. This work evaluates the combined effect of Bordeaux mixture and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) microplastics (<5 mm) on the growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and soil microbial communities. Different levels of Bordeaux mixture (0, 100 and 500 mg kg⁻¹), equivalent to Cu(II) concentrations (0, 17 and 83 mg kg⁻¹), LDPE microplastics (0, 1% and 5%) and their combination were selected. After 28 days of growth, biometric and photosynthetic parameters, Cu uptake, and soil microbial responses were evaluated. Plant germination and growth were not significantly affected by the combination of Cu and plastics. However, individual Cu treatments influenced root and shoot length and biomass. Chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations increased with Cu addition, although the differences were not statistically significant. Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis revealed a reduction in microbial biomass at the highest Cu dose, whereas LDPE alone showed limited effects and may reduce Cu bioavailability. These results suggest that even at the highest concentration added, Cu can act as a plant nutrient, while the combination of Cu–plastics showed varying effects on plant growth and soil microbial communities. Full article

In agricultural practice, in addition to determining the nitrogen (N_f) dose, it is necessary to effectively control its effect on currently grown crops. Meeting these conditions requires not only the use of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), but also nutrients such as magnesium (Mg) and sulfur (S). This hypothesis was verified in a single-factor field experiment with winter wheat (WW) carried out in the 2015/2016, 2016/2017, and 2017/2018 growing seasons. The experiment consisted of seven variants: absolute control (AC), NP, NPK-MOP (K as Muriate of Potash), NPK-MOP+Ki (Kieserite), NPK-KK (K as Korn–Kali), NPK-KK+Ki, and NPK-KK+Ki+ES (Epsom Salt). The use of K as MOP increased grain yield (GY) by 6.3% compared to NP. In the NPK-KK variant, GY was 13% (+0.84 t ha⁻¹) higher compared to NP. Moreover, GYs in this fertilization variant (FV) were stable over the years (coefficient of variation, CV = 9.4%). In NPK-KK+Ki+ES, the yield increase was the highest and mounted to 17.2% compared to NP, but the variability over the years was also the highest (CV ≈ 20%). The amount of N in grain N (GN) increased progressively from 4% for NPK-MOP to 15% for NPK-KK and 25% for NPK-KK+Ki+ES in comparison to NP. The nitrogen harvest index was highly stable, achieving 72.6 ± 3.1%. All analyzed NUE indices showed a significant response to FVs. The PFP-N_f (partial factor productivity of N_f) indices increased on NPK-MOP by 5.8%, NPK-KK by 12.9%, and NPK-KK+Ki+ES by 17.9% compared to NP. The corresponding N_f recovery of N_f in wheat grain was 47.2%, 55.9%, and 64.4%, but its total recovery by wheat (grain + straw) was 67%, 74.5%, and 87.2%, respectively. In terms of the theoretical and practical value of the tested indexes, two indices, namely, NUP (nitrogen unit productivity) and NUA (nitrogen unit accumulation), proved to be the most useful. From the farmer’s production strategy, FV with K applied in the form of Korn–Kali proved to be the most stable option due to high and stable yield, regardless of weather conditions. The increase in the number of nutritional factors optimizing the action of nitrogen in winter wheat caused the phenomenon known as the “scissors effect”. This phenomenon manifested itself in a progressive increase in nitrogen unit productivity (NUP) combined with a regressive trend in unit nitrogen accumulation (NUA) in the grain versus the balance of soil available Mg (Mg_b). The studies clearly showed that obtaining grain that met the milling requirements was recorded only for NUA above 22 kg N t⁻¹ grain. This was possible only with the most intensive Mg treatment (NPK-KK+Ki and NPK-KK+Ki+ES). The study clearly showed that three of the six FVs fully met the three basic conditions for sustainable crop production: (i) stabilization and even an increase in grain yield; (ii) a decrease in the mass of inorganic N in the soil at harvest, potentially susceptible to leaching; and (iii) stabilization of the soil fertility of P, K, and Mg. Full article

Microgreens, having short growth cycles and efficient nutrient uptake, are ideal candidates for biofortification. This study investigated the effects of selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) on photosynthetic performance in four hydroponically grown Brassica microgreens (broccoli, pak choi, kohlrabi, and kale), using direct and modulated chlorophyll a fluorescence and chlorophyll-to-carotenoid ratios (Chl/Car). The plants were treated with Na₂SeO₄ at 0 (control), 2, 5, and 10 mg/L or ZnSO₄ × 7H₂O at 0 (control), 5, 10, and 20 mg/L. The results showed species-specific responses with Se or Zn uptake. Selenium enhanced photosynthetic efficiency in a dose-dependent manner for most species (8–26% on average compared to controls). It increased the plant performance index (PI_tot), particularly in pak choi (+62%), by improving both primary photochemistry and inter-photosystem energy transfer. Kale and kohlrabi exhibited high PSII-PSI connectivity for efficient energy distribution, with increased cyclic electron flow around PSI and reduced Chl/Car up to 8.5%, while broccoli was the least responsive. Zinc induced variable responses, reducing PI_tot at lower doses (19–23% average decline), with partial recovery at 20 mg/L (9% average reduction). Broccoli exhibited higher susceptibility, with inhibited Q_A re-oxidation, low electron turnover due to donor-side restrictions, and increased pigment ratio (+3.6%). Kohlrabi and pak choi tolerated moderate Zn levels by redirecting electron flow, but higher Zn levels impaired PSII and PSI function. Kale showed the highest tolerance, maintaining stable photochemical parameters and total electron flow, with increased pigment ratio (+4.5%) indicating better acclimation. These results highlight the beneficial stimulant role of Se and the dual essential/toxic nature of Zn, thus emphasizing genotype and dose-specific optimizations for effective biofortification. Full article

Konjac glucomannan (KGM) is a natural polysaccharide polymer. It is degraded by gut microbiota-derived β-mannanase into small-molecule nutrients, which exert diverse physiological regulatory effects. As a prebiotic, KGM modulates gut microbiota composition. It selectively fosters the proliferation of beneficial commensals and suppresses potential pathogens, thereby alleviating microbiota-related disorders. Moreover, microbiota fermentation of KGM produces metabolites. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are particularly notable among these metabolites. They exert multifaceted beneficial effects, including metabolic regulation, intestinal barrier strengthening, and neuroprotective functions. These effects are mediated through inhibition of inflammatory pathways (e.g., NF-κB, MAPK), modulation of lipid metabolism genes (e.g., CD36), and regulation of neurotransmitters (e.g., GABA, 5-HT). This highlights KGM’s therapeutic potential for metabolic, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases. Current clinical use is limited by dose-dependent adverse effects and interindividual response variability, which stem from different microbial communities. This necessitates personalized dosage strategies. Despite these limitations, KGM as a prebiotic polysaccharide exhibits multifaceted bioactivity. Current evidence suggests its potential to synergistically modulate metabolic pathways, gut microbiota composition, immune cell signaling, and neuroendocrine interactions. This highlights its promise for developing novel therapeutic interventions. Full article

Copper (Cu) is a naturally occurring element in soils, and at adequate concentrations, it is essential for plant survival. However, excessive Cu can lead to contamination, impairing soil quality and affecting the development of living organisms. The present study aimed to evaluate the physiological responses of Stizolobium aterrimum plants grown in soils contaminated with increasing doses of copper. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse under controlled temperature conditions. Five treatments were applied (0, 30, 60, 240, and 480 mg dm⁻³). After 51 days of cultivation, the plants were harvested, and their tissues were separated into leaves, roots, and nodules. Nitrogen compounds were extracted, and the contents of total soluble amino acids, ureides, and soluble proteins were quantified. The activity of the nitrogenase enzyme was analyzed in vivo. The results indicate that Stizolobium aterrimum is partially tolerant to copper contamination, exhibiting adequate growth and metabolism in the presence of moderate Cu concentrations. However, increasing Cu levels in the soil reduce fresh biomass production and lead to higher copper accumulation in the root system. High soil Cu concentrations also affect the absorption of other nutrients, in addition to copper itself. Cu doses around 240 mg dm³ can already be considered toxic. Full article

This study evaluated the effect of soil and foliar fertilization with nitrogen (N), molybdenum (Mo), zinc (Zn), and their combination (Zn-Mo) on nutrition, enzymatic activity, photosynthetic pigments, and productive parameters in the Western Schley pecan tree. An orthogonal Taguchi L16 design was used with differentiated soil and foliar nitrate concentrations, reaching an average of 1557.7 mg kg⁻¹, and increasing up to 1907 mg kg⁻¹ depending on the fertilization dose. Nitrate reductase activity (NRNO₃⁻) significantly increased with N and Mo applications, reaching a maximum of 13.62 µmol. Among photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll a was the only variable with a significant response, highlighting the role of Mo in its enhancement. Positive effects were also observed on pomological traits such as yield (up to 425 kg ha⁻¹), nut weight, and kernel percentage with increased doses of N and Mo. In conclusion, combined fertilization improved the nutritional status, physiological responses, and productivity of pecan trees, emphasizing the importance of balanced nutrient management to avoid nutritional antagonisms and to optimize both yield and fruit quality. Full article

The increasing discharge of nutrient and metal-laden effluents into saline environments demands sustainable remediation strategies. This study evaluated the phytoremediation potential of Salicornia brachiata, a halophytic plant, under hydroponic conditions using varying concentrations of three macronutrients—nitrate (NO₃⁻), phosphate (PO₄³⁻), and calcium (Ca²⁺)—and three heavy metals—lead (Pb²⁺), chromium (Cr⁶⁺), and copper (Cu²⁺). The plant exhibited high removal efficiencies across all treatments, with Pb²⁺ and Cr⁶⁺ reaching nearly 99% removal within two days, while macronutrient removal showed a steady, time-dependent increase over the 14-day period. Several biochemical parameters, including proline content and antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase), were significantly affected by treatments, with most showing dose-dependent responses to heavy metal exposure, indicating strong biochemical resilience. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed pollutant-specific structural shifts and identified –OH, –NH, and –COO⁻ groups as key binding sites. The study quantifies the removal efficiency of S. brachiata for both nutrients and metals and provides mechanistic insight into its ionic stress response and binding pathways. These findings establish S. brachiata as a viable candidate for integrated phytoremediation in saline, contaminated water systems. Full article

This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the impact of soybean β-conglycinin on broiler growth performance, nutrient utilization, allergic and inflammatory responses, intestinal barrier integrity, and cecal microbiota. A total of 168 newly hatched (1-day-old) Arbor Acres broilers with similar body weights were randomly divided into 6 treatment groups with 4 replicates of 7 broilers per replicate: the control group received a soybean-free basal diet, while the remaining five experimental groups were provided with diets supplemented with purified soybean β-conglycinin at the doses of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%. The results demonstrated that dietary 1–5% β-conglycinin supplementation significantly reduced the growth performance, nutrient utilization, and content of digestive enzymes in broilers (p < 0.05). Dietary 1–5% β-conglycinin supplementation also significantly increased the serum levels of histamine, β-conglycinin-specific IgY and IgM, TNF-α, and IL-6 and decreased IL-10 levels; the 3% group had the highest levels of histamine, TNF-α, and IL-6 and the lowest levels of IL-10 (p < 0.05). β-conglycinin supplementation significantly down-regulated the mRNA expression of tight junction proteins, MUC2 and IL-10, and up-regulated the expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in the small intestinal mucosa (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the Shannon and Simpson indices were significantly reduced by dietary 1–5% β-conglycinin administration (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (Blautia, Lactobacillus, and Butyricoccus) was significantly decreased in all treatments (p < 0.05). Taken together, these findings suggest that β-conglycinin induces allergic and inflammatory responses, impairs intestinal barrier integrity, and alters the intestinal microbial balance, ultimately leading to reduced nutrient utilization and inhibited growth in broilers. Notably, our study demonstrated that dietary supplementation with 1% β-conglycinin already had various negative effects on broilers, and particularly supplemental 3% β-conglycinin induced serious allergic and inflammatory reactions. Therefore, in the present study, it is recommended that the inclusion level of β-conglycinin in broiler formula feed should not exceed 1%, i.e., the β-conglycinin content in the diet should not exceed 0.6% (converted from β-conglycinin purification purity). Full article

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants that can significantly impact soil nutrient dynamics, particularly phosphorus (P) cycling, which is critical for maintaining soil fertility and ecosystem productivity. However, limited information is available on how different microplastic types and concentrations specifically influence phosphorus dynamics and microbial enzyme activity in soils. Microplastic contamination may alter P cycling by directly supplying phosphorus or indirectly influencing microbial activity and enzyme function through changes in soil structure and aggregation. This study examined the short-term impacts of three widely used microplastic polymers—polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET)—on soil phosphorus forms and alkaline phosphatase activity (APA), a key enzyme in phosphorus transformation. Incubation experiments were conducted at two concentrations (0.5% and 5%) over 30 and 60 days. The results indicated that the impact of microplastics on soil phosphorus dynamics varied according to both polymer type and contamination dose. Microplastics increased available phosphorus (AP) and APA levels compared to control soils, indicating a stimulatory effect on microbial processes. This may be due to the temporary accumulation of phosphorus on MP surfaces, which can stimulate phosphatase activity. Over time, however, both AP and APA levels declined, suggesting that degradation products released from MPs and organic matter may have altered the activity of the microbial communities responsible for P cycling. FTIR analysis revealed clear degradation of microplastics, with PET showing the most pronounced chemical transformation. PP exhibited moderate degradation, while PE demonstrated the highest resistance to environmental breakdown. These degradation processes likely released functional groups (e.g., carboxyl, carbonyl, hydroxyl) and low-molecular-weight compounds into the soil, modifying microbial processes and phosphorus chemistry. Particularly in PET-amended soils, these degradation products may have enhanced phosphate complexation or mobilization, contributing to higher levels of available phosphorus at the end of the incubation time. Understanding the polymer-specific and concentration-dependent effects of microplastics is critical for accurate ecological risk assessment in terrestrial ecosystems. Full article

Potassium (K⁺) functions as a critical “regulator” and “quality element” in plants, with its physiological roles varying across developmental stages. To clarify the effects of different K⁺ amounts in nutrient solution on water and nutrient absorption characteristics and potassium utilization efficiency in substrate-grown tomato, a controlled experiment was conducted in a climate-regulated solar greenhouse using “Saint Ness” tomato as the plant material. Four K⁺ supply levels (1, 4, 8, and 16 mmol/L, designated as K1, K4, K8, and K16 treatment, respectively) were tested to systematically evaluate the responses of tomato plants at different growth stages in terms of water and nutrient absorption capacity, potassium physiological efficiency (KPE), and potassium utilization efficiency (KUE). The results showed that water absorption capacity did not differ significantly among treatments during the vegetative growth stage. However, during the reproductive stage, the K8 treatment exhibited the highest water absorption capacity (47.05 kg/plant) and water absorption efficiency (84.6%). In addition, K8 significantly promoted the coordinated uptake of K⁺, nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium, with a total potassium absorption capacity of 7.2 g/plant and a potassium absorption efficiency of 79.1%. In contrast, excessive K⁺ supply (16 mmol/L) increased total potassium absorption capacity (5.09 g/plant) but led to a marked decline in physiological efficiency (by 27.9%) and water absorption efficiency (by 10.3%) due to luxury consumption and substrate-induced salt stress. Insufficient K⁺ levels (1–4 mmol/L) also restricted root-mediated water and nutrient flux. The study further revealed a dose-dependent and stage-specific pattern in water and potassium absorption. Therefore, an appropriate K⁺ supply of 8 mmol/L not only improved the plant’s absorption capacity for water and nutrients and potassium utilization efficiency but also maintained ionic balance among essential nutrients. These findings provide a theoretical basis for precision water and fertilizer integration strategies in substrate-cultivated tomato production under greenhouse conditions. Full article

This study investigated the effects of acrylamide on the growth, neurobehavioral responses, gut integrity, microbial composition, and toxicokinetics of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). Larvae were exposed to acrylamide-contaminated diets at 0.05, 0.5, and 5 mg/kg (dry weight) to assess dose-dependent impacts. Results revealed that acrylamide exposure delayed larval growth peaks and reduced maximum weights by 6.17–76.01% (12–18 days). Additionally, crawling speed decreased significantly at ≥0.5 mg/kg, indicating neurotoxicity. Trypan blue staining demonstrated dose-dependent midgut damage (2.22% in control vs. 25.56% at 5 mg/kg), correlating with compromised nutrient absorption. Gut microbiota analysis showed enrichment of pathogenic genera (e.g., Escherichia-Shigella) and suppression of beneficial taxa (e.g., Klebsiella), alongside reduced metabolic and immune-related pathways via Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Toxicokinetic modeling revealed bioaccumulation, with bioaccumulation factors (BAF) inversely related to substrate concentration (18.67 at 0.05 mg/kg vs. 2.90 at 5 mg/kg). Elimination half-lives (DT₅₀) varied from 3.25 to 8.22 days, suggesting concentration-dependent detoxification efficiency. These findings highlight acrylamide’s multifaceted toxicity in BSFL, emphasizing risks in waste valorization and insect-based feed production. This study underscores the need for substrate safety protocols to ensure sustainable applications of BSFL in the circular bioeconomy. Full article

Eucalypts are a diverse group of Myrtaceae native to Australia and adapted to a wide range of edaphoclimatic conditions, including variation in phosphorus (P) soil availability. While Corymbia and Eucalyptus species have evolved in P-poor soils, they still respond to P additions. Nutrient ratios have been used to study nutritional imbalances in plants, as they relate to nutrient homeostasis within cells and ultimately productivity. This study investigated the effects of providing adequate (normal) and high doses of phosphorus (P) on nutrient ratios in leaves and stems of Eucalyptus and Corymbia species. High soil P may happen due to high natural soil concentration and over-fertilization. These species were pre-selected from a 22-eucalypt species screening, based on their responses—either positive, negative, or neutral—to increased dry mass at high soil P compared to normal P. Two species, Corymbia citriodora and C. maculata, which showed increased dry mass under high P levels, exhibited enhanced shoot growth and improvements in parameters related to photosystem efficiency. Except for Zn, which has an antagonistic relationship with P, the concentrations of other nutrients known to exhibit either antagonism or synergism with P were not significantly altered in the leaves and stems. As a result, there were no notable changes in the ratios with high P data compared to those with normal P data. Ratios calculated among K, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Mn data also remained unchanged. However, a principal component analysis, which was performed with all nutrient ratios, effectively separated the normal P and high P treatments and distinguished between species belonging to the genera Corymbia and Eucalyptus. The validity of such nutrient ratios is discussed, and it is suggested that they may not be applicable in studies involving high nutrient doses, which may also be true for other nutrients. Additionally, using ratios under unbalanced field fertilization may lead to an incorrect nutritional interpretation. Full article

This study evaluated the phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) in two genotypes and one cultivar of Brachiaria decumbens (HD1, HD4, and Basilisk) and the productive, morphogenic, and structural responses. The experimental design used was randomized blocks with five P rates (0, 13, 26, 52, and 104 mg dm⁻³). There was no forage × P rate interaction (p > 0.05), but the P rates affected the leaf appearance rate (TAR; p = 0.0314), leaf life span (LLS; p = 0.0207), phyllochron (PC; p = 0.0207), leaf elongation rate (LER; p = 0.0350), stem elongation rate (SER; p = 0.0109), and the number of live leaves (NLL; p = 0.0033). The LAR, LLS, and PC followed quadratic trends, increasing up to 52 mg dm⁻³, while the PC declined. The FLL, SER, and NLL increased linearly. HD1 had the highest final leaf length, LER, and NLL, while Basilisk had the lowest. There was an interaction for tiller population density (p = 0.0431), with increases of 0.26, 0.28, and 0.24 tillers for HD4, HD1, and Basilisk, respectively. Forage production (FP) increased with P, gaining 0.51 g of DM for each mg dm⁻³ of P added. The HD1 genotype showed higher FLL, LER, NLL, FP, and higher PUE than the HD4 genotype and the Basilisk cultivar. HD1 was more responsive to higher P rates for root production, indicating a greater need for nutrients to reach its productive potential. Phosphate fertilization positively influenced morphogenesis and forage production in the evaluated genotypes and cultivars. The HD1 genotype stood out in relation to the others, showed superiority in forage and root production, and demonstrated greater efficiency in the use of P, at a dose of 13 mg dm⁻³. Full article

This study evaluated the phytoremediation of mine tailing-contaminated soils in Quiulacocha, Peru, using the combined application of biochar and compost, with Zea mays L. (maize) serving as the phytoremediator due to its high biomass production and stress tolerance. A factorial experimental design was implemented, varying two main factors: the mining tailings dose (30% and 60% w/w) and the biochar pyrolysis temperature (300 °C and 500 °C). The mine tailings were characterized by high concentrations of heavy metals and unfavourable physico-chemical properties (pH, low organic matter), whereas the biochar, produced from pine forest residues, and the compost, derived from urban organic waste, exhibited attributes that enhance soil quality. During the pot experiment, response variables including the Bioconcentration Factor (BCF) and Translocation Factor (TF) for various metals were evaluated to assess the capacity for contaminant immobilization and their distribution between plant roots and aerial tissues. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of biochar and compost significantly improved soil quality by increasing pH, cation exchange capacity, and nutrient retention, while simultaneously reducing the bioavailability of heavy metals and limiting their translocation to the aerial parts of maize. Factorial analysis further indicated that both the tailings dose and biochar pyrolysis temperature significantly influenced the efficacy of the phytoremediation process. In conclusion, the combined application of biochar and compost presents an effective and sustainable strategy for rehabilitating mine tailing-contaminated soils by stabilizing heavy metals and promoting the safe growth of Zea mays L. Full article

Climate change and overgrazing significantly constrain the sustainability of meadow land and vegetation in the livestock industry on the Tibetan–Plateau ecosystem. In context of climate change mitigation, grassland soil C sequestration and forage sustainability, it is important to understand how manure regimes influence SOC stability, grassland soil, forage structure and nutritional quality. However, the responses of SOC fractions, soil and forage structure and quality to the influence of manure gradient practices remain unclear, particularly at Tianzhu belt, and require further investigation. A field study was undertaken to evaluate the soil bulk density, aggregate fractions and dynamics in SOC concentration, permanganate oxidizable SOC fractions, SOC stabilization and soil nutrients at the soil aggregate level under manure gradient practices. Moreover, the forage biodiversity, aboveground biomass and nutritional quality of alpine meadow plant communities were also explored. Four treatments, i.e., control (CK), sole sheep manure (SM), cow dung alone (CD) and a mixture of sheep manure and cow dung (SMCD) under five input rates, i.e., 0.54, 1.08, 1.62, 2.16 and 2.70 kg m⁻², were employed under randomized complete block design with four replications. Our analysis confirmed the maximum soil bulk density (BD) (0.80 ± 0.05 g cm⁻³) and micro-aggregate fraction (45.27 ± 0.77%) under CK, whilst the maximum macro-aggregate fraction (40.12 ± 0.54%) was documented under 2.70 kg m⁻² of SMCD. The SOC, very-labile C fraction (Cfrac₁), labile C fraction (Cfrac₂) and non-labile/recalcitrant C fraction (Cfrac₄) increased with manure input levels, being the highest in 2.16 kg m⁻² and 2.70 kg m⁻² applications of sole SM and the integration of 50% SM and 50% CD (SMCD), whereas the less-labile fraction (Cfrac₃) was highest under CK across aggregate fractions. However, manures under varying gradients improved SOC pools and stabilization for both macro- and micro-aggregates. A negative response of the carbon management index (CMI) in macro-aggregates was observed, whilst CMI in the micro-aggregate fraction depicted a positive response to manure addition with input rates, being the maximum under sole SM addition averaged across gradients. Higher SOC pools and CMI under the SM, CD and SMCD might be owing to the higher level of soil organic matter inputs under higher doses of manures. Moreover, the highest accumulation of soil nutrients,, for instance, TN, AN, TP, AP, TK, AK, DTPA extractable Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn, was recorded in SM, CD and SMCD under varying gradients over CK at both aggregate fractions. More nutrient accumulation was found in macro-aggregates over micro-aggregates, which might be credited to the physical protection of macro-aggregates. Overall, manure addition under varying input rates improved the plant community structure and enhanced meadow yield, plant community diversity and nutritional quality more than CK. Therefore, alpine meadows should be managed sustainably via the adoption of sole SM practice under a 2.16 kg m⁻² input rate for the ecological utilization of the meadow ecosystem. The results of this study deliver an innovative perspective in understanding the response of alpine meadows’ SOC pools, SOC stabilization and nutrients at the aggregate level, as well as vegetation structure, productivity and forage nutritional quality to manure input rate practices. Moreover, this research offers valuable information for ensuring climate change mitigation and the clean production of alpine meadows in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau area of China. Full article