Carbon reserves released?
Article Abstract:
Recent research suggests that high-latitude ecosystems are responding to observed global warming by releasing stored carbon as carbon dioxide (CO2). One study measuring the CO2 flux over Alaska's tundra and another which reports a north-south atmospheric CO2 gradient are both consistent with the hypothesis that the tundra has become a net carbon producer. Models used for terrestrial carbon storage remain simplistic. They are unable yet to account for the effect of increased precipitation on carbon storage or gauge the role of the oceans in the cycle.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1993
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Recent change of Arctic tundra ecosystems from a net carbon carbon dioxide sink to a source
Article Abstract:
Data from Alaska's North Slope show the tundra has become a net source of carbon dioxide (CO2). The tundra has historically been a CO2 sink as the carbon cycle stored carbon in the form of only partially decomposed plant remains. Recent warming may have lowered the water table which, in turn, increased plant decomposition and concentration of atmospheric CO2. If the recent warming resulted from increased greenhouse gas concentration, then the tundra ecosystem may be part of a positive feedback loop with global warming and atmospheric CO2.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1993
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Acclimation of ecosystem CO2 exchange in the Alaskan Arctic in response to decadal climate warming
Article Abstract:
Summer CO2 flux data for Arctic ecosystems between 1960 and 1998 were studied.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2000
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