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Principles of terrestrial ecosystem ecology.pdf

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216 9. Terrestrial Nutrient Cycling<br />

N 2<br />

E<br />

E<br />

E<br />

N org<br />

NH 4 +<br />

S 2-<br />

org SO4<br />

Ca org<br />

Rock<br />

Rock<br />

Ca 2+<br />

NO 3 -<br />

NH 3<br />

2-<br />

SO4 H 2 S<br />

N2 N2O NO x<br />

Figure 9.10. Comparison <strong>of</strong> natural element cycles<br />

with respect to the relative importance <strong>of</strong> internal<br />

recycling, inputs, and outputs. Inputs <strong>of</strong> nitrogen<br />

come primarily from the atmosphere, whereas<br />

inputs <strong>of</strong> phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and most<br />

unessential elements such as lead (Pb) come primarily<br />

from rocks. Sulfur comes from both the<br />

E<br />

E<br />

E<br />

Rock<br />

Rock<br />

P org<br />

Rock<br />

K +<br />

Pb<br />

PO 4 3-<br />

P bound<br />

atmosphere and rocks. Over long time scales, atmospheric<br />

inputs <strong>of</strong> all elements can be important.<br />

Element losses occur through leaching, erosion (E),<br />

and, in the case <strong>of</strong> nitrogen and sulfur, gaseous<br />

emission. Subscripts indicate organic (org) or bound<br />

forms <strong>of</strong> the element.

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