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Title: Changes in the flux of carbon between plants and soil microorganisms at elevated CO{sub 2}: Physiological processes with ecosystem-level implications. Progress report

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/10175084· OSTI ID:10175084
 [1];  [2]
  1. Michigan Univ., Ann Arbor, MI (United States). School of Natural Resources and Environment
  2. Michigan Technological Univ., Houghton, MI (United States)

Our ability to interpret ecosystem response to elevated atmospheric CO{sub 2} is contingent on understanding and integrating a complex of physiological and ecological processes. However, we have a limited understanding of the combined effects of changes in plant carbon (C) allocation, microbial activity, and nitrogen (N) dynamics on the long-term response of terrestrial ecosystems to elevated CO{sub 2}. Individually, these factors are potent modifiers of C and N dynamics, and an in depth understanding of their interactions should provide insight into ecosystem-level responses to global climate change. Our research is aimed at quantifying the physiological mechanisms leading to increased fine root production, microbial biomass and rates of N cycling at elevated atmospheric CO{sub 2}. More specifically, we will experimentally manipulate soil nitrogen availability and atmospheric CO{sub 2} to understand how changes in plant resource availability influence the cycling of carbon between plants and soil microorganisms.

Research Organization:
Michigan Univ., Ann Arbor, MI (United States). School of Natural Resources and Environment
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
FG02-93ER61666
OSTI ID:
10175084
Report Number(s):
DOE/ER/61666-1; ON: DE94017067; BR: KP0204000
Resource Relation:
Other Information: PBD: 15 May 1994
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English