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SSF-Svalbard Science Forum

Effects of goose grubbing, rain-on-snow events and warming on soil arthropods and plant matter decomposition RiS12131

Awarded: NOK 36,965

The High Arctic systems are changing rapidly with increased temperatures, winter rain and increasing goose populations, and subsequent grubbing. Increases in grubbing, icing and warming will all change the conditions for soil dwelling animals, and through them affect soil nitrogen mineralisation rates and tundra carbon sink capabilities. This study will investigate how changes in goose grubbing, icing and temperature affect soil biota and plant matter decomposition rates, by collecting and analyzing soil fauna and measuring leaf litter decomposition in an experimental study manipulating warming, icing and grubbing by geese.

Funding scheme:

SSF-Svalbard Science Forum