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Project Detail

Biotic, microclimatic and microhydrologic interactions in the development of mountain peatbogs

Name: Biotic, microclimatic and microhydrologic interactions in the development of mountain peatbogs
Researchers: Svitavská Svobodová Helena (member in research team)
Provider: GA ČR
Number: GA206/99/1411
Realization from: 1999
Realization to: 2001
Summary: Montane and subalpine peatbogs of Central Europe are marked by their distinct surface microtopography that corresponds to microclimatic and microhydrologic diversification and related biotic processes. Field and experimental observations of production and decomposition balance will be carried out to test speculative prognoses about progressive erosion of these ecosystems that serve as important deposits of organic carbon and an important factor in water budget of landscape. Microhydrologic, microclimatic and redox profiles along typical transects will be analysed with regard to biotic responses of cyanophytes, algae, bryophytes, higher plants, heterotrophic macrofauna and with regard to microbial activity. Radiocarbon dating of palynological data will enable time-dependent evaluation of paleovegetation. Based on calibration of digital images of actual vegetation, maps and air survey photographs, the spatial extrapolation will be carried out by means of GIS for to assess recent developmental dynamics of the peatbog surface. The outcome will be used for management proposals in these unique ecosystems that are incorporated within UNESCO´s Biosphere Reserves and represent internationally important wetlands protected by Ramsar Convention.

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