Ecosystem Balance Research Articles

Revitalizing Freshwater Ponds: Assessing Physical Structures, Water Quality Parameters and Sustainable Bio- Recharging Strategies Through Community Engagement

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to revitalize the freshwater ponds by assessing physical structures, water quality parameters and sustainable bio- recharging strategies through community engagement. Research Design: The study employs a combination of exploratory and descriptive research approaches. Sampling was conducted among the individuals who are in direct access with the freshwater ponds. Methodology: Data collection involved direct surveys using a structured questionnaire and the water samples were collected from the selected regions Results: The results reveal that there are ponds that need immediate restoration and rejuvenation in order to sustainably take up the matter of a balanced ecosystem for the better survival and coexistence of individual species along with mankind by proper maintenance of the water body for a better tomorrow. The water quality analysis shows significant causes of deterioration due to ecological instability and overuse of the resources by improper management strategies which resulted in loss of biodiversity and habitat loss. Originality of Research: This study records the revitalization of freshwater ponds by assessing physical structures, water quality parameters, and sustainable bio- recharging strategies through community engagement.

Soil Fungal Community Differences in Manual Plantation Larch Forest and Natural Larch Forest in Northeast China.

Soil fungal communities are pivotal components in ecosystems and play an essential role in global biogeochemical cycles. In this study, we determined the fungal communities of a natural larch forest and a manual plantation larch forest in Heilongjiang Zhongyangzhan Black-billed Capercaillie Nature Reserve and Gala Mountain Forest using high-throughput sequencing. The interactions between soil fungal communities were analysed utilising a co-occurrence network. The relationship between soil nutrients and soil fungal communities was determined with the help of Mantel analysis and a correlation heatmap. The Kruskal-Wallis test indicated that different genera of fungi differed in the two forest types. The results show that there was a significant change in the alpha diversity of soil fungal communities in both forests. In contrast, nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analysis showed significant differences in the soil fungal community structures between the manual plantation larch forest and the natural larch forest. The soil fungal co-occurrence network showed that the complexity of the soil fungal communities in the manual plantation larch forest decreased significantly compared to those in the natural larch forest. A Mantel analysis revealed a correlation between the soil fungal co-occurrence network, the composition of soil fungi, and soil nutrients. The RDA analysis also showed that AN, TK, and pH mainly influenced the soil fungal community. The null model test results showed the importance of stochastic processes in soil fungal community assembly in manual plantation larch forests. Overall, this study enhances our understanding of the differences in soil fungal communities in manual plantation larch forests and natural larch forests, providing insights into their sustainable management. It also serves as a reminder that the ecological balance of natural ecosystems is difficult to restore through human intervention, so we need to protect natural ecosystems.

Kelimpahan dan Biomassa Ikan Karang di Kawasan Konservasi Perairan Gili Balu, Kabupaten Sumbawa, Nusa Tenggara Barat

The Gili Balu Marine Conservation Area (KKP), located in Sumbawa Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, is ecologically and economically significant due to its rich coral reef ecosystems. This research aims to measure the abundance and biomass of reef fish in the KKP Gili Balu, which can be used as a basis for evaluating the effectiveness of conservation efforts in maintaining marine biodiversity. The Underwater Visual Census (UVC) method was used, recording types of reef fish at ten observation points. The results showed that the highest abundance was found on Mandiki Island, with functional fish abundance reaching 2973 ind/ha, followed by Pasareang Barat Island (1903 ind/ha) and South Kalong (1600 ind/ha). The biomass of functional fish also reflects their important role in maintaining the balance of the coral reef ecosystem. This research contributes to the scientific understanding of marine biodiversity in the KKP Gili Balu and provides a basis for sustainable conservation management efforts. Additionally, the research recorded the presence of several coralivorous and economically important fish species, although they tend to be smaller compared to functional fish. Economically important fish in the KKP Gili Balu waters were found only at four observation locations: East Belang Island, North Belang, Kenawa, and Southwest Namo. The highest value was recorded at Kenawa Island, with 93 ind/ha. These fish tend to be rare in this area, possibly due to past fishing practices.

PENGELOLAAN EKOSISTEM LAMUN DALAM MENDUKUNG KEBERLANJUTAN DUGONG

Seagrass is one of the three important ecosystems in coastal areas. Seagrass usually forms large fields under the water column and still gets sunlight so that it becomes high primary production. Seagrass ecosystem and the marine biota within it are utilized to improve the welfare of community living in the coastal areas. The impact of these activities causes a decrease in the quality and quantity of seagrass ecosystem, resulting in disruption of the balance of aquatic ecosystems and reduced water productivity as well as the survival of marine biota such as dugongs which is vulnerable to extinct. Therefore, to preserve the seagrass ecosystem, it is necessary to introduce to the students about the importance of seagrass ecosystems and awareness for the environment from an early age. This community service activity was conducted at SMA Negeri 39 in Waai Village, Central Maluku using the lecture/discussion method. The results of the activity can be seen from the questions they asked during the discussion/question and answer session and when giving the pre and post-test. This shows that the service activities carried out received a positive response even though they were simple in implementation. This community service activity is expected to increase knowledge and awareness about seagrass ecosystems and marine biota, especially dugong, and to change people's mindset, behavior and love for coastal areas from an early age.

Bridging Local Wisdom and Modernity: Swamp Buffalo Cultivation in Tampakang Village as a Model of Nature Conservation and Sustainable Community Welfare

This journal explores how swamp buffalo cultivation in Tampakang Village, South Kalimantan, is a model for integrating local wisdom and modernity in achieving sustainable development. Through a qualitative descriptive analysis approach, this study reveals the important role of swamp buffalo in maintaining the balance of wetland ecosystems and as a source of livelihood for local communities. By utilizing field observation methods, in-depth interviews, and literature studies, it was found that local wisdom in swamp buffalo cultivation not only preserves local traditions and culture but also provides economic benefits through ecotourism. In addition, challenges in providing feed during the rainy season and limited knowledge of farmers were identified as obstacles that needed to be overcome. However, the opportunity to develop swamp buffalo tourism can improve community welfare through job creation and income increase. This research provides practical recommendations to conserve swamp buffalo cultivation and maximize its potential as a source of sustainable community welfare.

Length-Weight Relationship of Diamondback puffer Lagocephalus guentheri from the northeastern Mediterranean Sea

The length-weight relationship data is important basic information that helps to compare species between populations and habitats. In this study, we provide detailed information on the length-weight relationships and condition factors of Lagocephalus guentheri from the Iskenderun Bay, northeastern Mediterranean Sea. A total of 408 (262 Female, 146 Male) specimens were collected on commercial trawlers by local fishermen caught between December 2022 to December 2023 from Iskenderun Bay. The total length range was 11.0-36.9 cm and 11.2-36.7 cm for females and males, respectively. The total weight values of females and males ranged from 20.30-1080.50 g and 20.50-1012.36 g, respectively. The length-weight relationship of L. guentheri was calculated as W = 0.0098 × L3.2145 (R2 = 0.9960) for females, W = 0.009 × L3.2399 (R2 = 0.9963) for males, and W = 0.0095 × L3.2243 (R2 = 0.9962) both sexes. The Fulton’s condition factor was observed as 1.2384 for females, 1.2504 for males, and 1.2335 for both sexes. This study is the most recent reference on length-weight relationships and condition factors for L. guentheri after correction of species identification. It is very important to determine the population parameters of pufferfish species to shed light on the studies to be carried out to restore the ecological balance in the Mediterranean ecosystem. This study will provide basic information that will be useful for fisheries scientists and managers in the Mediterranean Sea.

Peduli Lingkungan melalui Persediaan Tempat Sampah Pilah di Desa Setren, Kecamatan Rejoso, Kabupaten Nganjuk

Economic growth and increasing population density in adulthood require awareness regarding environmental concern. Caring for the environment is an important thing that must be done to prevent natural damage and maintain ecosystem balance. Nganjuk Regency, with a population density of around 1,103,902 people in 2020, of course produces quite a lot of household waste. There is a need to increase awareness and change attitudes regarding waste sorting and processing to create a clean and healthy environment, which is the aim of holding waste bin procurement activities. Seeing that Setren Village SDGs number 12, namely Environmentally Conscious Village Consumption and Production, still has not met the target score that must be achieved, knowledge regarding waste sorting needs to be emphasized more. The method used was direct observation in the Setren Village environment, then a Focus Group Discussion was held regarding handling waste problems to create a healthy environment. The results of the community service carried out are the provision of waste sorting bins and socialization of waste sorting. Apart from that, there has been an increase in knowledge regarding types of waste for the people of Setren Village.

The Effect of Exposure to Microplastic Polystyrene (PS) in Feed on the Haematology of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Indonesia is one of the countries that has the largest archipelago area in the world. Indonesia's vast territorial waters also present major challenges in terms of environmental management. One problem that is getting worse is plastic waste. Over time, plastic waste scattered in the environment will degrade into small particles which are usually called microplastics. Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is one of the economically and ecologically important freshwater fish species. This fish is not only an important source of protein for humans, but also plays a role in the balance of the marine ecosystem. Exposure to microplastics in fish can occur in various ways, including through contaminated feed. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of exposure to polystyrene (PS) microplastics in feed on the blood profile of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The treatments given were P1 without exposure to microplastics, P2 with 0.01 mg/0.75 g, P3 with 0.1 mg/0.75 g, and P4 with 1 mg/0.75 g. The parameters measured in the study were blood profiles, including hematocrit, hemoglobin, erythrocytes, leukocytes, leukocyte differential and survival rate. The results obtained in this study were that hematocrit levels and survival rates had an effect on fish growth, while erythrocyte, leukocyte and leukocyte differential values had no significant effect on the blood profile of Nile fish exposed to polystyrene microplastics.

CONSERVATION OF THE DIVERSITY OF MEDICINAL PLANTS WITH APPLICABILITY DENTAL MEDICINE AND SUSTAINABLE USE OF PLANT RESOURCES

The high incidence of oro-dental pathologies correlated with the significant increase in antibiotic resistance has led to the urgent need to develop alternative treatments, using as natural sources the active principles present in medicinal plants. Thus, at the border between traditional and modern, the use of therapeutic effects of various medicinal plants seems to be a way of preventing and treating oro-dental diseases. Along with this use of plant resources, there is therefore also an awareness of the need to conserve species affected, over time, by overharvesting or even mass extinctions. The sustainable use of these resources leads to maintaining the dynamic balance of ecosystems, maintaining and preserving ecosystem services vital to the development of life on Earth.

Nutrient Accumulation in Silver Birch (Betula pendula Roth) Biomass in a Lignite Mining Area

The influence of lignite mining on vegetation constitutes a key issue due to the role of plants in restoring and maintaining the ecological balance of ecosystems. In this context, the identification of its impact on the functioning of silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) as a species often colonizing disturbed habitats takes on particular importance. Therefore, we aimed to determine the changes in nutrient content in silver birch overgrowing a spoil heap and in the vicinity of a fly ash settling pond and power plant. For this purpose, plant tissues (fine and coarse roots, stemwood, bark, coarse and fine branches, leaves) and soil samples (0–10, 10–20, 20–40, 20–40 cm deep) were examined. The basic soil characteristics were determined, along with the N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn contents of the soil and plant samples. The soils varied in terms of soil pH and were poor in total organic carbon and other elements. The plant nutrient content varied strongly across the analyzed tissues, with the leaves usually containing the most and the stemwood the least nutrients. Statistical analysis indicated significant differences between the control vs spoil heap (particularly in Mn, S, and Mg) and the stand close to the settling pond (particularly in Ca, Mn, P, K, and S). We found that the chemical properties of the spoil heap and fly ash originating from the lignite mining operations are likely factors influencing nutrient accumulation in silver birch trees.

Waste to resource: Engineered ridge gourd peel‐based activated carbon for enhanced cephalexin adsorption

This research investigates the efficacy of ridge gourd peel‐derived activated carbon (RGAC), activated with zinc chloride, for the removal of the antibiotic pollutant cephalexin (CFX) from aqueous solutions. Ensuring the elimination of cephalexin residues from aquatic environments is crucial for curbing the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and preserving the balance of ecosystems. RGAC exhibits exceptional characteristics, with a surface area of 945.857 m2/g and a pore size of 1.7 nm, as determined through thorough structural analysis. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared analysis confirm the presence of various functional groups on RGAC's surface which aids in adsorption process, while zeta potential analysis indicates a negative surface charge of −18.11 mV. As experimental investigation, batch study was conducted considering distilled water spiked with CFX under standard condition for treatment with RGAC. Impressively, RGAC demonstrates a high CFX adsorption capacity of 37.56 mg/g, also achieving more than 90% CFX removal efficiency. Fitting of the Langmuir isotherm (R2 = 0.9647) and the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics model (R2 = 0.99) reveals strong agreement between theoretical predictions and experimental results. Furthermore, real‐time sampling and regeneration studies underscore RGAC's potential as a commercially viable adsorbent for addressing antibiotic micro‐pollutants in aquatic environments. Throughout six cycles of regeneration studies, a stable pattern emerged, showcasing rejection rates consistently between 81% and 93%. These findings contribute significantly to the advancement of environmentally sustainable water treatment strategies and pollution mitigation efforts.

Effects of bagasse as a carbon source on biofloc formation, water quality, and microbial community structure in shrimp culture system.

As a widely available, low-cost agricultural byproduct, bagasse is a potential solid carbon source and provides microbial attachment as a biofilm carrier. In this study, the effects of bagasse as a carbon source on biofloc formation, water quality, microbial community structure, and nitrogen conversion in a shrimp culture system were explored, and the performance of bagasse bioflocs was assessed. No bagasse was added to the control group (CK), and three bagasse addition groups were set up, with the floc content of the water maintained at 5 mL/L (BF5 group), 10 mL/L (BF10 group), and 15 mL/L (BF15 group). The results showed that bagasse bioflocs formed in the fourth week when bagasse was placed in the culture water, and the surface of bagasse was covered with thick biofilm at that time. The DOC content of the BF15 group was significantly greater than that of the CK group, from 30.31 to 105.06% (P < 0.05), and the DOC increased with increasing bagasse biofloc content. The BF group rapidly converted TAN to NO2--N and then to NO3--N because the accumulation of nitrite nitrogen in the BF15 group occurred 1 week earlier than in the other groups; at the 8th week, the nitrite nitrogen conversion rate of each BF group was close to 100%, which was significantly greater than that of the CK group (P < 0.05). The relative abundances of genes encoding microbial glutamate dehydrogenase and glutamate synthase increased in the bagasse biofloc groups (P < 0.05). The relative abundances of genes from Rhodobacterales and Hyphomicrobiales in each group were greater, but bagasse bioflocs increased the proportion of Hyphomicrobiale. In summary, adding bagasse to the shrimp culture system can form a biofloc system, resulting in the formation of a rich bacterial biofilm on its surface. Bagasse addition not only affects the composition of microbial communities but also accelerates the nitrification process in water. As a result, ammonia and nitrite are converted into nitrate, which is essential for maintaining the stability of the ecosystem balance in aquaculture water.

Exploration and origin studies of high levels of β-glucosidase in carnivorous fishes spotted knifejaw (Oplegnathus punctatus)

In order to more efficiently utilize the abundant cellulose resources in nature, increase the utilization rate of cellulose in aquaculture, implement precise feeding and save aquaculture costs, we have conducted research on cellulase genes related to the spotted knifejaw (Oplegnathus punctatus). Cellulose, as the most abundant renewable resource, is a cornerstone in the intricate ecological balance of diverse ecosystems. While herbivorous fish are recognized for their utilization of proteins, sugars, and fats, the extent of cellulose utilization by carnivorous and omnivorous fish remains an enigma. Here, through field sampling and behavioural observations, O. punctatus' omnivorous diet has been demonstrated (stomach contents contain approximately several species of algae in the Bacillariophyta (1.12 %), Streptomyces (0.55 %), Chlorophyta (0.35 %), Rhodophyta (0.16 %), and Euglenophyta (0.19 %) phylum). Additionally, the high cellulase activity in the intestine of O. punctatus has been detected first discovery (enzyme activity up to 4800.15 U/g), indicating its ability to digest cellulose. By employing whole-genome scanning and high-throughput sequencing, a single cellulase gene (β-glucosidase) within the genome of O. punctatus, suggesting the absence of a complete cellulose digestive system. However, microbiological analysis revealed the three crucial role of microorganisms, including Actinobacteria (25.80 %), Bacteroidetes (18.93 %), and Firmicutes phylum (0.82 %), were found to play a crucial role in the decomposition of plant cell walls, thereby facilitating plant material digestion to help the host to complete the process of cellulose digestion. Expression patterns and proteomic analysis of the β-glucosidase were notably high in the gonads. In situ hybridization confirmed the expression of the β-glucosidase gene in the intestinal contents and gonads, highlighting its role in supplying energy of gonads. These discoveries shed light on the dietary habits of O. punctatus and its cellulose utilization, offering insights that can inform the development of customized feeding strategies to enhance aquaculture sustainability and minimize resource expenditure.

Ecological dynamics and conservation implications of Indo-Pacific Tarpon (Megalops cyprinoides) in Lake Siombak, North Sumatra, Indonesia

This study presents a comprehensive examination of the Indo-Pacific Tarpon (IPT) population in Lake Siombak, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia. Through a year-long investigation, we analyzed various facets of IPT ecology, encompassing population structure, growth dynamics, reproductive behavior, feeding habits, and mortality parameters. Male dominance in collected specimens, coupled with consistently immature gonads in females, suggests a unique reproductive pattern influenced by the brackish nature of Lake Siombak. Utilizing the von Bertalanffy method, we determined a moderate growth rate in IPT, with a predominance of medium-sized, sexually immature individuals. The dietary analysis revealed an omnivorous nature, with a notable reliance on zooplankton, particularly Cladocera and Copepods. However, the most significant concern arises from the estimation of the exploitation rate (E), surpassing the annual optimum exploitation threshold, indicating a state of overexploitation. This underscores the urgent need for regulatory measures to ensure the sustainability of IPT resources in Lake Siombak. Our findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of IPT ecology in this specific ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of balanced conservation and management practices. The documented reproductive, growth, and feeding patterns provide crucial insights for informing targeted conservation strategies and safeguarding the enduring viability of the IPT population in Lake Siombak. This research serves as a foundational contribution to the broader field of fisheries science, advocating for evidence-based management to preserve the ecological balance of aquatic ecosystems.

Bee-Associated Beneficial Microbes-Importance for Bees and for Humans.

Bees are one of the best-known and, at the same time, perhaps the most enigmatic insects on our planet, known for their organization and social structure, being essential for the pollination of agricultural crops and several other plants, playing an essential role in food production and the balance of ecosystems, being associated with the production of high-value-added inputs, and a unique universe in relation to bees' microbiota. In this review, we summarize information regarding on different varieties of bees, with emphasis on their specificity related to microbial variations. Noteworthy are fructophilic bacteria, a lesser-known bacterial group, which use fructose fermentation as their main source of energy, with some strains being closely related to bees' health status. The beneficial properties of fructophilic bacteria may be extendable to humans and other animals as probiotics. In addition, their biotechnological potential may ease the development of new-generation antimicrobials with applications in biopreservation. The concept of "One Health" brings together fundamental and applied research with the aim of clarifying that the connections between the different components of ecosystems must be considered part of a mega-structure, with bees being an iconic example in that the healthy functionality of their microbiota is directly and indirectly related to agricultural production, bee health, quality of bee products, and the functional prosperity for humans and other animals. In fact, good health of bees is clearly related to the stable functionality of ecosystems and indirectly relates to humans' wellbeing, a concept of the "One Health".

Transcriptomic alterations in host parasitoid wasps resulting in extended lifespan due to PpNSRV-1 infection

The parasitoid wasp Pteromalus puparum, a pivotal agent in agricultural ecosystem balance, experiences significant alterations in lifespan due to infection by the negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus PpNSRV-1. This study utilized RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to investigate the genetic mechanism(s) driving lifespan extension in response to this virus. Lifespan analysis, combined with RNA-seq of nearly isogenic lines of infected and uninfected wasps, yields a comprehensive temporal expression profile aligned with the P. puparum genome. Despite a modest overall impact of PpNSRV-1 on gene expression, notable effects were observed on specific gene families, such as the SPOP genes and the cytochrome P450 family. Through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), we identified connections between the green and greenyellow modules to viral infection traits, with further functional analyses highlighting the pivotal roles of the Hedgehog, autophagy, AMPK, mTOR, p53, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. RNA interference experiment targeting the SPOP gene PPU06594-RA confirmed its role in lifespan modulation, underscoring the importance of Hedgehog pathway in the host’s adaptive response. These insights not only elucidate the complex genetic landscape of host-virus interactions but also open avenues for innovative biological pest control strategies.

Warming Reduces Priming Effect of Soil Organic Carbon Decomposition Along a Subtropical Elevation Gradient

AbstractThe priming effects (PEs) of soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition is a crucial process affecting the C balance of terrestrial ecosystems. However, there is uncertainty about how PEs will respond to climate warming. In this study, we sampled soils along a subtropical elevation gradient in China and conducted a 126‐day lab‐incubation experiment with and without the addition of 13C‐labeled high‐bioavailability glucose or low‐bioavailability lignin. Based on the mean annual temperature (MAT) of each elevation (9.3–16.4°C), a temperature increase of 4°C was used to explore how PEs mediate the decomposition of SOC in response to warming. Our results showed that the magnitude of glucose‐induced PEs (PEglucose) was higher than lignin‐induced PEs (PElignin), with both PEs linearly increasing with MAT. Across the MAT (i.e., elevation) gradient, short‐term warming had a constant magnitude of negative effects on PEglucose, whereas rising MAT exacerbated the negative effects of short‐term warming on PElignin. Moreover, the temperature sensitivity of SOC decomposition decreased after adding glucose and lignin across the MAT gradient, suggesting that fresh C inputs may prime the microbial breakdown of labile SOC under warming. Taken together, warming alleviated SOC loss due to PEs through varying mechanisms depending on substrate bioavailability. Warming mediated the PEglucose by increasing available nitrogen and weakening microbial nitrogen‐mining but inhibited the PElignin by shifting from microbial nitrogen‐mining to microbial co‐metabolization. Our findings highlight the role of warming in regulating the PEs and suggest that incorporating the suppression effect of warming on PEs can contribute to the accurate prediction of soil C dynamics in a warming world.

Coral-reef ecology: Expanding urchin disease threatens ecosystem balance

Sea urchins are critically important herbivores on coral reefs. A new study shows that a disease that decimated sea urchins in the Caribbean in 2022 has spread to the Red Sea, further threatening coral ecosystems.

How can a balanced ecosystem of technology, collaboration and innovation build greener airports? The case study of Groningen Airport Eelde

This paper discusses Groningen Airport Eelde’s (GRQ) transition to sustainable aviation, emphasising its commitment to minimising environmental impact while enhancing regional connectivity. It details GRQ’s initiatives, collaborations and future plans, showcasing how the airport leverages its unique position to spearhead the adoption of sustainable technologies, particularly in hydrogen. Through collaboration, innovation and strategic partnerships, GRQ aims to lead the way towards a more sustainable aviation future. GRQ’s commitment to minimising environmental impacts aligns with community interests, maintaining local trust and government support. By 2030, GRQ aims for a fully emission-free ground operation. The airport has successfully implemented a 22MW airside solar park and is now pioneering a comprehensive hydrogen ecosystem, aiming to become Europe’s first Hydrogen Valley Airport. Despite challenges in funding and legislation, GRQ advises other airports to build consortia, connect with regional partners and prioritise sustainability.

Interannual Variability of Water and Heat Fluxes in a Woodland Savanna (Cerrado) in Southeastern Brazil: Effects of Severe Drought and Soil Moisture

The Brazilian Cerrado biome is known for its high biodiversity, and the role of groundwater recharge and climate regulation. Anthropogenic influence has harmed the biome, emphasizing the need for science to understand its response to climate and reconcile economic exploration with preservation. Our work aimed to evaluate the seasonal and interannual variability of the surface energy balance in a woodland savanna (Cerrado) ecosystem in southeastern Brazil over a period of 19 years, from 2001 to 2019. Using field micrometeorological measurements, we examined the variation in soil moisture and studied its impact on the temporal pattern of energy fluxes to distinguish the effects during rainy years compared to a severe drought spell. The soil moisture measures used two independent instruments, cosmic ray neutron sensor CRNS, and FDR at different depths. The measures were taken at the Pé de Gigante (PEG) site, in a region of well-defined seasonality with the dry season in winter and a hot/humid season in summer. We gap-filled the energy flux measurements with a calibrated biophysical model (SiB2). The long-term averages for air temperature and precipitation were 22.5 °C and 1309 mm/year, respectively. The net radiation (Rn) was 142 W/m2, the evapotranspiration (ET) and sensible heat flux (H) were 3.4 mm/d and 52 W/m2, respectively. Soil moisture was marked by a pronounced negative anomaly in the 2014 year, which caused an increase in the Bowen ratio and a decrease in Evaporative fraction, that lasted until the following year 2015 during the dry season, despite the severe meteorological drought of 2013/2014 already ending, which was corroborated by the two independent measurements. The results showed the remarkable influence of precipitation and soil moisture on the interannual variability of the energy balance in this Cerrado ecosystem, aiding in understanding how it responds to strong climate disturbances.