Nitrogen cycling and nitrogen saturation in temperate forest ecosystems
1John Aber is at the Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans and Space, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|January 18, 2011
Summary
Nitrogen deposition has shifted forest research from deficiency to excess, causing nitrogen saturation. This review synthesizes impacts on temperate forests and environmental quality.
Area of Science:
- Forest Ecology
- Environmental Chemistry
- Biogeochemical Cycles
Background:
- Nitrogen cycling research in forests has shifted focus over the last decade.
- Early concerns centered on nitrogen deficiencies and harvest removal effects.
- Current concerns highlight excess nitrogen availability, forest decline, and water pollution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent research on nitrogen deposition effects in temperate forests.
- To synthesize findings on nitrogen saturation and its environmental consequences.
- To update the understanding of nitrogen's role in forest ecosystem health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific publications.
- Synthesis of research on nitrogen deposition and its impacts.
- Analysis of the concept of nitrogen saturation in forest ecosystems.
Main Results:
- Increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition is a primary driver of ecosystem change.
- Forest ecosystems are exhibiting signs of nitrogen saturation.
- Excess nitrogen impacts forest health and contributes to surface water pollution.
Conclusions:
- Nitrogen saturation poses significant risks to temperate forest ecosystems.
- Understanding nitrogen deposition is crucial for environmental quality management.
- Further research is needed to mitigate negative impacts of excess nitrogen.
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