Effect of moisture conditions in rice paddies on phosphorus fractionation in agriculture soils of rapidly developing regions of China

Moisture conditions in rice paddies play an important role in phosphorus (P) cycling and may affect P loss to nearby water bodies. This study seeks to identify factors that contribute to P-fraction transformations in flooded rice paddies on Cambosols and Anthrosols using Zhangjiagang County of the Yangtze River delta region, China, as a study area. Soil samples preserved under flooded and aerobic conditions (n = 60) were collected, and P fractions and soil properties were measured. Under flooded conditions, soluble and loosely bound P significantly decreased to half of aerobic levels, aluminum/iron-bound P increased by 66%, and organic-bound P decreased by 64%. Soil organic matter, cation exchange capacity, pH, and active iron were well correlated with soil P fractions under both moisture conditions across two soil orders despite a disparity in soil properties. Further research goals that would aid in specific fertilizer recommendations and management strategies are identified.