Methanotroph populations and CH4 oxidation potentials in high-Arctic peat are altered by herbivory induced vegetation change.

ABSTRACT: Methane oxidizing bacteria (methanotrophs) within the genus Methylobacter constitute the biological filter for methane (CH4) in many Arctic soils. Multiple Methylobacter strains have been identified in these environments but we seldom know the ecological significance of the different strains. High-Arctic peatlands in Svalbard are heavily influenced by herbivory, leading to reduced vascular plant and root biomass. Here, we have measured potential CH4 oxidation rates and identified the active methantrophs in grazed peat and peat protected from grazing by fencing (exclosures) for 18 years. Grazed peat sustained a higher water table, higher CH4 concentrations and lower oxygen (O2) concentrations than exclosed peat. Correspondingly, the highest CH4 oxidation potentials were closer to the O2 ric

SUBMITTER: Rainer EM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8202349 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature