Nutrient Uptake and Cycling in Forest Ecosystems

Abstract

Under the influence of changing environmental conditions the importance of gaining knowledge about effects of abiotic and biotic factors on the interrelationships in forest ecosystems is growing. The pollutants that have been emitted ever since industrialization started have resulted in more or less pronounced changes in forest ecosystems. Acid deposition led to accelerated soil acidification associated with enhanced nutrient leaching in many areas. The increased deposition of N compounds caused soil eutrophication and resulted in nutrient imbalances for various plant species. New aspects of environmental changes have become apparent more recently. Due to the increased emission of CO2 and other potential greenhouse gases changes in temperature and water regimes and eventually also in nutrient cycles are expected. A more profound understanding of the interrelationships in forest ecosystems is needed to allow for the appropriate implementation of specific management strategies to reduce the damaging effects of such impacts.