From production to consumption: Tracing C, N, and S dynamics in Brazilian agroecosystems using stable isotopes

Abstract

Brazilian scientists have played a pioneering role in developing and applying stable isotope methodologies, in terms of natural abundance and enriched levels, to trace carbon and nutrient flows in terrestrial ecosystems, including natural and agroecosystems. Significant contributions have been made in the areas of biological N2 fixation, carbon dynamics in soil, synthesis and evaluation of labeled fertilizers, and food science. These contributions have originated from several decentralized units of Embrapa, from research institutions, and from federal or state universities. In order to capitalize the existing Brazilian expertise, it is necessary to provide, at an institutional level, analytical facilities for stable isotope research, aiming to strengthen national capacity and to maintain the international competitiveness of the research.