humifioitumista

Humifioitumista is a term used in soil science to describe the process by which fresh organic matter is transformed into humus, the stable, complex fraction of soil organic matter. The concept covers microbial breakdown, polymerization, and stabilization reactions that convert simple plant and microbial residues into high molecular weight humic substances.

During humifioitumista, microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi decompose labile components, while slower components like lignin persist and become incorporated into humic polymers through condensation and oxidation reactions. Soil minerals and aggregates help stabilize these substances by adsorbing them and protecting them from rapid mineralization.

Factors controlling the rate include temperature, moisture, substrate quality, aeration, pH, and the activity of soil fauna such as earthworms. In managed ecosystems, practices like proper composting, residue management, and reduced soil disturbance can promote humification, contributing to soil fertility and carbon sequestration.

Measurement and study involve partitioning soil organic matter into fractions (humic acids, fulvic acids, humin) and using spectroscopic or chemical methods to characterize humic substances. The term is used in ecology and agronomy to discuss long-term soil health and carbon storage.