Tropical soils are essential to global biodiversity, carbon storage, and the livelihoods of millions in some of the most densely populated and ecologically vibrant regions. Despite being among the most weathered and nutrient-depleted soils on Earth, they sustain extraordinary biological diversity and productivity. However, much of our understanding of tropical soils—and the methods used to study them—has been developed in temperate zones and agricultural systems. These frameworks, while valuable, often fail to capture the diversity and the unique dynamics of tropical soils, including their nutrient cycling, microbial diversity, and sensitivity to global change. This disconnect limits our ability to sustainably manage tropical landscapes in response to deforestation, climate change, and food insecurity.



This session seeks to unite soil scientists and tropical ecologists working across tropical regions to advance our understanding of these vital ecosystems. Discussions will center on the current state of knowledge, identifying gaps in data and methodology, and proposing innovative approaches to fill those gaps. How can tropical soil science break free from temperate-centric paradigms? What interdisciplinary collaborations and locally adapted techniques will yield the most impactful insights?



Our goal is to develop a roadmap for tropical soil science over the next decade. By integrating diverse approaches, actors, and local knowledge, this session aligns with the conference theme: Tropical Biology and Conservation for a Sustainable World. Outcomes from this session will not only inform soil science but also benefit fields such as ecosystem ecology, agriculture, conservation, and restoration ecology, emphasizing the importance of robust tropical soil data for advancing sustainability on a global scale.