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.