Effect of dwarf pine vegetation on karren dissolution

Geomorphological environments. Research methods on biotic and abiotic anvironments

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
Soil CO2 content of areas with different vegetation coverings was investigated in alpine terrains (Totes Gebirge, Austria). Dissolution of limestone was compared on slopes with vegetation patches (grass or dwarf pine) and on bare slopes. Dissolution intensity was also studied on a model system. CO2 content of the soil was found higher under vegetation patches because of the degradation of organic materials. Dissolution of limestone tablets was greater in the soil than on the surface. Temperature and the dissolution rate did not correlate. The dissolution rate depended primarily on the presence of water, especially in the colder seasons, whereas in the summer growing season CO2 produced by degradation could cause more intense dissolution under the vegetation. The tanin and acid contents of degrading organic materials could also play a significant role in the dissolution process.


Type de document :
Article de monographie

Source :
Zeitschrift für Geomorphologie, issn : 0372-8854, 2012, vol. 56, n°. 2, Suppl., p. 143-157, nombre de pages : 15, Références bibliographiques : 36 ref.

Date :
2012

Editeur :
Pays édition : Allemagne, Stuttgart, Gebruder Borntraeger