Influence of Tree Species on Soil Carbon Cycling across Boreal Forest Ecosystems

Summary

This research aims to assess the influence of vegetation composition, climate, and disturbance history on soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation. We will compare the mean residence time of SOC in spruce, pine, birch, and aspen-dominated forest ecosystems located near three separate research stations in Sweden and Finland. These sites range in species present, climate, and disturbance history. We will then assess how SOC accumulation in these forests compare to our studies in boreal North America (Alaska, USA, and the Northwest Territories and Yukon Territories of Canada). Our comparative approach will enhance our current scientific understanding of the drivers of SOC accumulation with ongoing climate warming.

soil carbon tree species