Formation and reactivity of iron-organic matter (Fe-OM) phases in wetland systems

The biogeochemical cycle of iron is closely linked to organic carbon turnover in soils, sediments, and aquatic environments. Association with iron (Fe) species has been observed to protect organic carbon (in the form of organic matter, OM) from microbial decomposition and eventual release as CO 2 . In addition, this association changes the redox properties of iron, affecting its bioavailability. Iron-organic matter (Fe-OM) phases may form via sorption of dissolved or particulate organic matter (DOM and POM, respectively) to iron species, or formation of iron (oxyhydr)oxide minerals in the presence of DOM and/or POM.