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Monoterpenes: Their effects on ecosystem nutrient cycling
1Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, 87131, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Journal of Chemical Ecology
|November 19, 2013
Summary
Monoterpenes, volatile organic compounds from plants, significantly impact ecosystem nutrient cycling, particularly the nitrogen cycle. Research shows they influence microbial processes, fire frequency, and potentially the carbon cycle.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Biogeochemistry
- Soil Science
Background:
- Monoterpenes are plant-derived volatile organic compounds with diverse ecological roles.
- Nutrient cycling, especially the nitrogen (N) cycle, is fundamental to ecosystem function.
- Understanding how specific compounds influence these cycles is crucial for ecosystem management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the evidence for monoterpenes altering nutrient cycling rates.
- To emphasize the impact of monoterpenes on the nitrogen (N) cycle from an ecosystem perspective.
- To present the theoretical basis and experimental support for monoterpene effects on N mineralization and nitrification.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on monoterpenes and nutrient cycling.
- Theoretical modeling of monoterpene modes of action on N mineralization and nitrification.
- Presentation of experimental data at cellular, population, and community levels.
- Consideration of indirect effects via fire frequency and carbon cycle interactions.
Main Results:
- Monoterpenes can directly influence microbial N mineralization and nitrification rates.
- Monoterpenes retained in litter may increase fire frequency, altering N-cycling processes.
- Experimental evidence supports monoterpene impacts on microbial and invertebrate communities involved in N cycling.
- Potential for monoterpenes to affect methane oxidation, impacting the carbon cycle.
Conclusions:
- Monoterpenes play a significant, multifaceted role in regulating ecosystem nutrient cycling, particularly the N cycle.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions between monoterpenes, fire, and biogeochemical cycles.
- Monoterpenes represent a key factor in understanding ecosystem responses to environmental change.
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