Microbial Biomass Carbon (MBC)
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context. The scoring engine uses 16 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 15 guard(s) constrain the result.
Evidence & Context
The analysis of regional data, long-term trial results, and broader ecological principles culminates in the recommendation of a Microbial Biomass Carbon (MBC) benchmark of 400 mg/kg for the 'best available condition' of agricultural crop production in Australia's Arid Mountain Ranges & Uplands biome.
Microbial Biomass Carbon (MBC) is a measure of the carbon contained within the living component of soil organic matter (SOM), which is composed predominantly of bacteria and fungi.
This benchmark represents the best available condition for Microbial Biomass Carbon in agricultural crop production soils of Australia's Arid Mountain Ranges & Uplands, indicating a high level of soil biological function.
This value is scientifically justified as it represents a state of high biological function that is demonstrably superior to the current regional average for low-rainfall cropping systems (338 mg/kg). It also signifies a meaningful transition from a state typical of conventionally cultivated soils (<400 mg/kg) to one with enhanced ecological resilience.
Sources (1)
Regenerative opportunities for building soil biological resilience – a case study in the low-rainfall zone in Southern Australia - GRDC
View SourceSupporting Sources (2)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Regenerative agriculture in Australia: the changing face of farming - Frontiers, accessed July 8, 2025
View SourceProspects for summer cover crops in southern Australian semi-arid cropping systems | Request PDF - ResearchGate
View Source