While shoot biomass contributes to soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation when residues are retained, empirical evidence highlights the crucial role of root traits in long-term carbon stabilization. At a given level of carbon input, breeding for deeper roots, enhanced exudation, and more recalcitrant biochemical composition can substantially improve the efficiency of SOC accumulation.
Abstract
The dual challenges of climate change and food security call for innovative solutions that simultaneously enhance crop yields and promote soil carbon sequestration. Here, we propose a paradigm shift in crop breeding toward the development of “high-carbon crops”—cultivars that couple high productivity with enhanced soil carbon input and stabilization, contributing to climate mitigation rather than increased carbon emissions.