Soil moisture affects the rate of decomposition of plant residues and the rate decreases under flooded conditions after peaking at moisture content of 60% of water holding capacity. Notably, soil moisture can have a large impact on the decomposition of organic matter by affecting the diffusion of oxygen into the soil and the availability of substrates for microorganisms. At a constant temperature, soil moisture content shows a parabolic affect on decomposition rates with a maximum rate at intermediate levels of moisture. High moisture content limits soil gas exchange leading to low oxygen concentrations and potentially anaerobic conditions.Temperature and moisture influence organic matter decomposition, in that warmer temperatures and high moisture levels result in higher rates of decomposition; faster litter turnover, and less organic matter accumulation. Decomposition of organic matter in submerged soil is carried out by Bacteria and releases different products like carbon dioxide, energy, water, plant nutrients and resynthesized organic carbon compounds. It's critical that soil both let water flow through, and hold water for later. So, soil organic matter is critical for forming aggregates, and aggregates are critical for holding water. Because of that link, there is definitely a positive relationship between organic matter and water-holding capacity
Micro-organisms, earthworms and insects help break down crop residues and manures by ingesting them and mixing them with the minerals in the soil, and in the process recycling energy and plant nutrients. Decomposition of organic matter in submerged soil is carried out by Bacteria and releases different products like carbon dioxide, energy, water, plant nutrients and resynthesized organic carbon compounds. Wet soil cuts off oxygen to many of the microorganisms that break down organic matter, leading to slower decomposition and better retention in the soil. Due to submergence of soil with water different physical, chemical and biological changes takes place. But the most important change due to its submergence is the electro-chemical changes, which include change in redox potential, pH, specific conductance and cation exchange of the soil. Decomposition of organic matter in submerged soil is carried out by Bacteria and releases different products like carbon dioxide, energy, water, plant nutrients and resynthesized organic carbon compounds. Adequate moisture is essential for microbial activity. Dry compost will not decompose efficiently. Proper moisture encourages the growth of microorganisms that break down the organic matter into humus. If rainfall is limited, water the pile periodically to maintain a steady decomposition rate. Soil moisture remarkably influences soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition and is one of the key variables in ecological models influencing changes in soil carbon (C) storage. However, the mechanisms determining the impact of soil moisture on SOC decomposition in coastal wetlands are poorly understood. At a constant temperature, soil moisture content shows a parabolic affect on decomposition rates with a maximum rate at intermediate levels of moisture. High moisture content limits soil gas exchange leading to low oxygen concentrations and potentially anaerobic conditions.