Potential Carbon Losses From Peat Profiles: Effects of Temperature, Drought Cycles, and Fire

• DOI: 10.2307/1941863
• Publication Date: 2006-04-18T01:21:15Z
• Authors: Edward H. Hogg; Victor J. Lieffers; Ross W. Wein
• Keywords: Carbon fibers

Global warming and the resultant increase in evapotranspiration might lead to lowered water tables peatlands an fire frequency. The objective of this study was investigate some potential effects these changes on peat decomposition. Dry mass losses emissions CO 2 CH 4 from samples taken three depth layers (0—10, 10—20, 30—40 cm) a black spruce peatland were measured laboratory at 8°, 16°, 24°C under two moisture treatments. Effects deep decomposition also simulated by burning upper layer (0—10 adding ash 10—20 cm layer. release averaged <1% total carbon loss flooded samples. Release 4—9 times greater 0—10 than After 120 d, had lost its original dry all Higher temperatures strongly promoted exposed drying cycles but little effect continuously Ash addition variable may have production. It is suggested that certain situations, global not cause appreciable increases deposits. results indicate deeper peats are resistant decay even when warm, aerobic conditions. However, further experimental work needed predict long—term response deposits levels different types.