application/pdf 2436003 bytes https://unilib.phaidrabg.rs/o:8396 cobiss:177872649 ISBN: 978-86-80417-99-8 2025 soil organic matter, ecofunctionality, ecosystem preservation info:eu-repo/semantics/conferenceProceedings Abstract: Soil organic matter (SOM) plays a key role in maintaining soil productivity through its positive impact on physical, chemical, and biological soil processes. It supports vital ecosystem functions such as carbon sequestration, nutrient provision, and biodiversity. Despite its importance, current research on SOM tends to emphasize its chemical properties, often overlooking its broader ecological functions. As global soils face mounting pressures and declining productivity, a paradigm shift is needed – one that redefines the conservation, management, and use of SOM in terms of its ecofunctionality. This concept encompasses the relationship between the characteristics of organic inputs and the specific ecosystem functions they sustain. To move in this direction, we must first define the key traits of organic amendments that promote desired outcomes such as enhanced carbon storage, improved nutrient cycling, or disease suppression. Equally important is identifying which ecological functions require targeted improvement. In this context, SOM should not only be evaluated for its contribution to soil fertility, but also as a proxy for the health and resilience of the soil ecosystem—providing habitat, supporting biodiversity, enabling biogeochemical cycles, and contributing to soil formation and primary productivity. In conclusion, ensuring long-term soil sustainability demands a shift in focus from chemical composition toward ecological function. Only by understanding and preserving soil ecofunctions can we truly safeguard this vital resource. Ecofunctionality of soil organic matter: a new paradigm for soil sustainability Šeremešić, Srđan Ćirić, Vladimir Ninkov, Jordana Ugrenović, Vladan Vojnov, Bojan Book of abstracts: 4th International and 16th National Congress of the Serbian Society of Soil Science: “The Soil Re-Union: Science for Healthy Soils” 20-23 October 2025, Fruške terme, Vrdnik, Serbia startpage: 69 endpage: 70 eng All rights reserved