Biogeochemical effects of forest vegetation on acid precipitation-related water chemistry: a case study in southwest China.
The elemental composition of rainwater, throughfall, and soil solutions of a forest ecosystem in the acid rain control region of southwest China was investigated during 2007-2008 to assess the acid buffering capacity of different forest covers. A possible seasonal distribution of wet deposition was identified. Sulfur was determined as the dominant acidification precursor in this region. The chemical composition of rainfall intercepted by the forest canopy was modified substantially; generally the ion concentrations were increased by dry deposition and foliar leaching. As an exception, the concentration of NH(4)(+) and NO(3)(-) decreased in throughfall, which was probably due to the absorption of nitrogen by the leaves. Elemental concentrations in soil solutions decreased with depth. The water conservation capacity of different forests was also evaluated. The most appropriate forest vegetation for water conservation and remediation of acid precipitation in this region was explored for the sake of ecosystem management, ecological restoration and economic development.
Chen
Jing
J
State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China. jingchen@bnu.edu.cn
Li
Wei
W
Gao
Fang
F
D015258:Acid Rain; D002681:China; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004785:Environmental Pollutants / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism; D052918:Environmental Restoration and Remediation; D012621:Seasons; D012987:Soil; D014197:Trees / Q000378:metabolism*; D014867:Water / Q000737:chemistry*
D015258:Acid Rain; D004785:Environmental Pollutants; D012987:Soil; D014867:Water