Submersed Macrophyte Density Regulates Aquatic Greenhouse Gas Emissions (in EN)
Shallow freshwater ecosystems emit large amounts of greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), yet emissions are highly variable. The role that aquatic macrophytes play in regulating aquatic GHG emissions is uncertain despite their ability to dominate shallow waterbodies. Here, we studied the effects of submersed macrophyte (Ceratophyllum demersum) density on CO2and CH4concentrations and fluxes. We conducted a 61‐days experiment using mesocosms containing one of the followingC.demersumdensity treatments: 0, 10, 20, or 30 individual shoots (n = 3). We found that high densityC.demersumhad the highest CO2and CH4surface water concentrations and emissions while there was no significant difference in CH4in the low and medium densities and no plant control. The high density treatment lost biomass over the course of the experiment, indicating die‐off and additions of organic matter to the sediment. High organic matter loading and low dissolved oxygen likely stimulated GHG production in the high density treatment. Our results emphasize that submersed macrophyte density and periods of growth and dieback are important in regulating GHG emissions, which may help explain why shallow waterbodies are high yet variable sources of GHGs to the atmosphere.
- Research Organization:
- Colorado State Univ., Fort Collins, CO (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Science (SC)
- Grant/Contract Number:
- SC0023084
- OSTI ID:
- 2577976
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Geophysical Research. Biogeosciences, Journal Name: Journal of Geophysical Research. Biogeosciences Journal Issue: 10 Vol. 128; ISSN 2169-8953
- Publisher:
- American Geophysical UnionCopyright Statement
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- EN
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