Soil Nitrogen
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 2 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 1 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
The critical upper detrimental threshold is identified as a TN level consistently exceeding 2500 mg/kg.
Total Soil Nitrogen (TN) in the top 10 cm of soil
This benchmark defines the critical upper threshold of Total Soil Nitrogen above which temperate grassy woodlands and plains ecosystems are at risk of degradation dominated by exotic species.
This threshold is supported by multiple studies showing degraded woodlands with TN above 2500 mg/kg and associated high nitrate levels favoring invasive species.
Sources (1)
Identifying ecological barriers to restoration in temperate grassy woodlands: soil changes associated with different degradation states
View SourceSupporting Sources (5)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Effects of Stock Grazing on Biodiversity Values in Temperate Native Grasslands and Grassy Woodlands in SE Australia: A Literature Review - ACT Government
View Source
Australian dryland soils are acidic and nutrient-depleted, and have unique microbial communities compared with other drylands - PMC
View Source
(PDF) Identifying ecological barriers to restoration in temperate grassy woodlands: soil changes associated with different degradation states - ResearchGate, accessed August 4, 2025,
View SourceSoil and Landscape Grid National Soil Attribute Maps - Total Nitrogen (3" resolution) - Release 2
View SourceGeology | Norfolk Island National Park | Parks Australia
View Source