The researchers studied soil respiration in a meadow steppe over three years. They found that soil respiration varied throughout the day and season, with higher levels in the growing season. Soil temperature and water content influenced soil respiration, explaining most of the variation. Soil respiration was highest in July and August and lowest in winter. The researchers estimated the amount of carbon released from the soil each year and calculated the temperature sensitivity of soil respiration. It's important to monitor soil respiration year-round to get an accurate picture.