Improving the representation of slow carbon processes in ecosystem models

Theresa Meacham

Principal supervisor: Mat Williams

Portsmouth

Oxford

Edinburgh

Theresa Meacham

Isle of Sheppey

Improving the representation of slow carbon processes in ecosystem models

Atmospheric CO2

Foliage Wood

Root Litter SOM / Wood

Assimilation / Photosynthesis

Autotrophic respiration

Heterotrophic respiration

Supervisors

Edinburgh•Mat Williams•John Grace

York•Phil Ineson•Andreas Heinemeyer

The Plan…

1. Modelling of soil carbon processes Existing data sets (Alice Holt and Wheldrake) Soil respiration chambers at Griffin Forest

2. Modelling of a closed system Ecotron at Silwood Park

3. Above ground influences Stand Age Forest Composition Fertilisation effects of N2 and CO2

Arima Valley-Nothern Range, Trinidad