Carbon sequestration potential in montane wetlands of Korea

Abstract

Montane wetlands are important carbon sinks for mitigating climate change. In this study, we estimated carbon sequestration rates and carbon storage in montane fen wetlands of the Odaesan National Park of Korea. We measured the depth of the organic layer at the three wetlands using a probe and collected 12 cores from four sites with different dominant plant species. The physicochemical characteristics of the cores were analyzed, and the 4 cores were dated with 210 Pb using the constant rate of supply model. Based on physicochemical analyses and 210 Pb dating, the carbon sequestration rate and carbon storage were calculated, ranging from 58.29 to 125.31 g C m −2 y −1 and 14.13–138.00 t C, respectively. Among the four sites studied, the carbon storage was highest at the Phragmites australis and Sphagnum palustre dominant site and the carbon sequestration rate was highest at the Salix koriyanagi and Sphagnum palustre dominant site. The carbon sequestration rate was substantially different before and after 1980 in montane wetlands in Korea ( p < 0.01). The depth of the organic layer and the organic matter density were significantly different among the four sites ( p < 0.01), with Jilmoe-neup showing the lowest value with recorded disturbance. We recommend that the dominant plant species and presence of disturbance be taken into account when estimating carbon sequestration rates and carbon storage for assessment of wetland restoration. The presence of S. palustre is an important factor in increasing carbon sequestration by diminishing carbon emissions. Disturbance is a factor that reduces the carbon sequestration rate and carbon storage, highlighting the importance of wetland conservation. Further studies are needed on the factors controlling carbon sequestration. • Carbon sequestration rate should be assessed based on dominant species. • Organic layer depths may differ among the same type of wetlands. • Organic layer depth is important when calculating the carbon amount per unit area. • Sphagnum palustre is important factor in increasing carbon sequestration by diminishing carbon emissions. • Quantify carbon sequestration potential using short-term carbon sequestration rate.