Climate controls on ecosystem-atmosphere carbon exchange and hydrological dynamics in Rocky Mountain fens
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Abstract
Groundwater fed peatlands known as fens are among the most important ecosystems in the Rocky Mountains of North America. These wetlands have sequestered atmospheric carbon dioxide for several millennia, provide important habitat for wildlife, and serve as refugia for regionally-rare plant species typically found in boreal regions. Perennially high water tables are critical for ecosystem functioning in fens, and provide conditions that support the development and persistence of organic soils. It is unclear how Rocky Mountain fens will respond to a changing climate, and those found at lower ...
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