. Productivity changes of wetland and grassland ecosystems along a latitudal gradient

The aim of the study. Analysis changes in productivity dwarf shrub-moss-lichen, pine-dwarf shrub-sphagnum and sedge-sphagnum grass ecosystems along latitudinal gradient. Methodology. For a number bog located gradient from 65 to 50° N range longitudes 63 95° E stocks live dead, aboveground belowground phytomass, as well values (ANP), (BNP) total production (NPP) were analyzed. data are given for 45 grouped into 12 types forest-tundra mires desert steppes. vegetation is represented by one (mosses, shrubs grasses) steppe (mesoxerophytic xerophytic grasses). Since spread on individual large, we present averaged ecosystem types. Main results. largest stock green phytomass was obtained floodplain meadows (7 t/ha), smallest found steppes (0.8 t/ha). dead maximal fens forest-steppe zone (10 t/ha) minimal oligotrophic hollows boreal bogs (0.3 living organs decreases 20 (true steppes) 3 t/ha (desert steppes), whereas decreased 79 (fens zone) 4 (in ryams middle taiga steppes). Above-ground estimated highest (12), decreasing down (1 per year). Belowground all studied higher than above-ground one, ranging year (mires forest-tundra). NPP value some varied 57 5 BNP/ANP ratio over (5.9) (1.9). In latitudes 56-52°N, where meadows, meadow true located, NPP, these ecosystems, 22 24 year. These most fertile soils region, i.e. chernozem ordinary (Phaeozems) developed. To north south this area, decreases: due lack heat, moisture. Conclusions. biotic cycle differs that annual sequestration part carbon influx forming peat. This amount about 10% wetland ecosystem. climax equal its outflux. acting gas exchangers between plants, soil atmosphere. contrast grasslands, wetlands accumulators lower CO2 air.