Global wetlands play a significant role as “blue carbon sinks”. Despite their relatively small coverage, they have enormous potential for carbon capture and sequestration, and also serve as an important natural source of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄). Wetland ecosystems are characterized by complex microbial interactions that mediate carbon (C) cycling processes, and also directly influence the dynamic changes of CO₂ and CH₄, underscoring the crucial role of microorganisms in these systems. Understanding the ecological significance of these gases and their response mechanisms to environmental changes is vital for mitigating the greenhouse effect and conserving ecosystems. This paper reviewed the major environmental challenges facing wetlands globally, such as salinization, over-fertilization, heavy metal input, and microplastic pollution, all influenced by human activities. Additionally, it examined their impact on microbial interactions that mediate the carbon cycle and related greenhouse gas emissions. This review highlighted the crucial role of microorganisms in these cycles and provided a microbial ecological perspective and theoretical foundation for promoting sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in wetland areas.

This study investigates the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of soil organic carbon (SOC) in the Tamarix chinensis forest ecosystem in Changyi National Marine Ecological Special Reserve, China. Five sampling routes and 32 sampling points were established; 293 soil samples were collected every 10 cm from the surface downwards. GIS spatial analysis techniques were employed to analyze the overall, horizontal, and vertical distribution characteristics of SOC within the 0–100 cm depth range. The results show that SOC content in the reserve ranges from 1.0 to 10.0 gC/kg, with an average of 2.5–8.2 gC/kg. High-SOC zones are in the southwest, where human disturbance is minimal and vegetation is dense, whereas low-SOC areas are in the west, and the north suffers from frequent tides and salinization. Horizontally, the surface SOC (0–10 cm) increased from 2.30 gC/kg in the east to 9.15 gC/kg in the western tidal flat. Vertically, six profile types were identified; the fluctuating type dominated (74.07%). Eight ecological zones were delineated based on land cover and function: the Tamarix core area exhibited surface aggregation with a depth-wise decline; the ecological restoration zone showed a mid-depth peak; and the moisture-proof dam zone displayed a “shallow-rise–deep-drop” pattern. Storm surges, moisture-proof dams, ecological zoning, and restoration projects were key drivers of SOC distribution.