Silicate chemical weathering disrupts the global patterns of phosphorus limitation.

Abstract

Global change is accelerating the chemical weathering of silicate rocks and the associated phosphorus release. However, the effects of phosphorus release on the global patterns of plant phosphorus limitation remain unclear. Here, we show that approximately 47% of the exposed areas in global silicate rocks are subject to phosphorus limitation of vegetation growth, as estimated using the ratio of leaf nitrogen to phosphorus resorption efficiency. Phosphorus-limited areas are projected to expand markedly with global warming, and the proportion may reach 54 - 59% according to two model scenarios (the shared socioeconomic pathways SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5). Nevertheless, phosphorus release from accelerated chemical weathering of silicate rocks mitigates this limitation, with a relative contribution of approximately 15.5%. This work highlights the implications of accelerated chemical weathering of silicate rocks and its resulting phosphorus release for the global patterns of phosphorus limitation, providing a scientific foundation for phosphorus management strategies.