Recent insights in soil nutrient cycling: perspectives from Pinus and Eucalyptus forest studies around the world

Soil nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems is a dynamic process fundamentally influenced by climatic and environmental factors. This review synthesizes studies focusing on nutrient dynamics in forests of Pinus and Eucalyptus species, highlighting the sensitivity of these systems to current climatic extremes. We emphasize that most research has been conducted predominantly in natural forests and plantations of Pinus (77%), with an increasing trend of studies on Pinus in natural environments and Eucalyptus in planted forests. Noteworthy, soil sampling in these studies has been primarily concentrated on the upper 30 cm of soil, where nutrient interactions are most pronounced. The relationship between litter and plant organ nutrients as well as soil fertility has been a significant focus of these studies, along with the role of nitrogen and carbon in response to global change. Also, we noticed the importance of research on water availability in the broader context of nutrient cycling. Our review underscores the necessity for continued research in this field, particularly to support informed management and adaptation strategies for both plantations and natural forests in the face of environmental change.