4 Discussion
This study is a combined analysis using data both from field sampling
and literature to explore effects of GE on soil pH dynamics across
China’s grasslands. Significant soil acidification caused by GE was
found in grassland ecosystems. Surface soil showed greater soil
acidification rates than those of subsoil layers in GE grasslands. The
largest decrease of pH was in the medium-term period (5–15 years)
following GE. MAP, RAC, RBC, RCC, RNC and dominant species were
identified as important factors controlling the response of soil pH
dynamics to GE.