Abstract
The fate and effects of anthropogenic N deposition in forest ecosystems are discussed, and a conceptual hypothesis for the ecosystem response to elevated N deposition is presented. The concept of ‘nitrogen saturation’ is discussed and defined. The interactions of effects of excess N (nutrient deficiencies, loss of mycorrhiza, soil acidification, etc.) are described; these may destabilize the forest ecosystem and contribute to forest decline. Estimates of long-term critical N loads for forest ecosystems of 2–20 kg N ha −1 year −1, depending on biomass utilization are derived from simple mass balance considerations. Denitrification is supposed to be an insignificant process in the N-cycling of most forests. It may not alleviate the impact of deposition inputs, but it may be an important process in relation to atmospheric stability.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
