Scientists find a carbon cycle hiding in Mojave Desert minerals

Researchers found that mineral-rich soils beneath the Mojave Desert run a carbon cycle of their own. It may account for a surprisingly large share of the planet's annual carbon exchange.

• Mineral-rich Mojave Desert soils drive their own carbon cycle
• The cycle may account for a notable share of global annual carbon exchange
• The finding reshapes views on arid regions' role in the climate