Biological carbon sequestration: perspectives for application of introduced tree species (case study of Quercus rubra L.)

Abstract

One of the most important tasks of modern biogeochemistry is to decrease the concentration of carbon dioxide in troposphere. Biological carbon sequestration is widely used for this purpose as a simple and effective method; and sequestration efficiency is often described in terms of biological productivity. Hence, the most typical way to increase the rates of carbon sequestration is to increase the productivity of plant communities. In this study we suggest the opposite approach – to slow down decomposition of plant litter and detritus in forest ecosystems. For this purpose we suggest to disturb one or several segments of trophic chains and webs. Sixblock scheme of trophic transformations of organic matter was developed: which included: biomass, necromass, copromass (feces), liquid waste products, detritus and soil organic matter. These blocks significantly differ from each other in mean residence time of organic matter and thus can be used for modeling of organic matter dynamics in terrestrial ecosystems. Litter of Quercus rubra L., as one of the most widespread introduced tree species, was used for case study. Decomposition rates of red oak and native species in temperate zone of East Europe were compared. Application of introduced tree species for biological carbon sequestration was shown to be reasonable and perspective for future studies.

Keywords

• carbon reservoir
• detritus
• soil organic matter
• phytomass
• catabolism
• Quercus rubra