Driving mechanisms of nitrogen transport and transformation in lacustrine wetlands

Abstract

As an essential component of proteins and genetic material for all organisms, nitrogen (N) is one of the major limiting factors that control the dynamics, biodiversity and functioning of lacustrine wetlands, in which intensified N biogeochemical activities take place. Reactive N loaded into wetland ecosystems has been doubled due to various human activities, including industrial, agricultural activities and urbanization. The main driving mechanisms of N transport and transformation in lacustrine wetlands are categorized to pushing forces and pulling forces in this study. Geomorphology, wetland age, N concentrations, and temperature are the main pushing forces (passive forces); whereas water table variation, oxygen concentration, other elements availability, oxidation-reduction potential (Eh) and pH, and microorganisms are the predominant pulling forces (active forces). The direction and kinetic energy of reactions are determined by pulling forces and then are stimulated by pushing forces. These two types of forces are analyzed and discussed separately. Based on the analysis of driving mechanisms, possible solutions to wetland N pollutions are proposed at individual, regional and global scales, respectively. Additional research needs are addressed to obtain a thorough understanding of N transport and transformations in wetlands and to reduce detrimental impacts of excessive N on such fragile ecosystems.