We assessed how predation by large carnivors affects soil properties and ecosystem functioning by altering microbial (bacteria, fungi) biodiversity and community composition. We compared ecosystem functioning (soil respiration, decomposition, vegetation N content and vegetation C:N ratio), soil abiotic (soil C and N content, soil temperature, soil moisture), and biotic properties (soil bacterial and fungal abundance, richness, diversity, community composition) sampled on wolf-killed ungulate carcasses [bison (Bison bison Hamilton Smith), elk] with close-by control sites in Yellowstone National Park.