TERN Ecosystem Surveillance: Soil Metagenomic Sample

This dataset comprises a comprehensive archive of soil metagenomic samples collected from TERN Ecosystem Surveillance monitoring plots across Australia. In addition to the nine subsite locations across the 1-hectare monitoring plot, soil metagenomic samples are collected from the top layer of soil. These samples can support microbial DNA analysis, including assessments of soil biodiversity, microbial function and ecological responses to environmental change. Each of the nine subsites are selected to represent the variation in micro habitats across the monitoring plot. Collected following the standardised Ecosystem Surveillance methodology, the dataset includes over 10,400 soil metagenomic samples archived in the TERN Australia Soil and Herbarium Collection, located at the University of Adelaide's Waite Campus.

Soil metagenomic samples are preserved under climate-controlled conditions to maintain DNA integrity for future molecular analysis. These samples are openly available to researchers and support a broad range of ecological, agricultural, and microbiological studies. Each record includes detailed metadata such as voucher barcode, site and visit information and sampling details. Soil subsite samples are accessible and available for loan upon request through the EcoPlots Samples portal via an Expression of Interest.