Abstract
We studied the effects of N deposition on shrub-moss competition and the establishment and growth of invasive Betula pubescens and Molinia caerulea in intact bog vegetation removed from a site subject to 40 kg N ha(-1) yr(-1). Mesocosms with and without introduced Betula seedlings and Molinia sprouts were kept under a roof and received an equivalent of 0, 40 and 80 kg N ha(-1) yr(-1) for two growing seasons. N concentration in both interstitial water and Sphagnum decreased when N input ceased and increased when N input was doubled. Molinia biomass was positively related to the inorganic N concentration in the interstitial water. Adding N increased production of Molinia and prolonged survival of Betula seedlings in the first year. Sphagnum height increment showed a hump-shaped relationship with light interception by vascular plants. N deposition encouraged vascular plants to grow by enhancing N availability in the rhizosphere. Water table level and the availability of P were found to be important in explaining species-specific responses to N deposition. The underlying mechanisms and the reversibility of N effects are discussed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 339-347 |
Journal | New Phytologist |
Volume | 157 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2003 |
Keywords
- atmospheric nitrogen
- litter decomposition
- ecosystems
- accumulation
- mire
- fertilization
- peatlands
- heathland
- fate