A mathematical model of carbon dynamics in wetland ecosystems with consideration of climatic factors

This study presents a mathematical model describing the carbon cycle in wetland ecosystems of northern regions. The model characterizes carbon concentration in two key reservoirs: Live (living plants and biomass) and Mort (dead organic matter). The primary processes incorporated in the model include photosynthesis, autotrophic and heterotrophic respiration, biomass decay, and carbon transport via groundwater. These processes are formalized with respect to temperature and groundwater level. The inclusion of groundwater level allows us to consider of differences between aerobic and anaerobic organic matter decomposition processes. Numerical simulations were performed using model data. Under conditions of low temperatures and high groundwater levels, heterotrophic respiration is slowed, leading to the formation of anaerobic conditions that favor the accumulation of carbon in the soil. In contrast, under reduced water levels, increased oxygen availability to organic material stimulates aerobic decomposition, resulting in higher CO₂ emissions. Unlike models focused on global processes, this work emphasizes the specific climatic, hydrological, and biochemical conditions of northern wetlands, which is crucial for accurately modeling the carbon balance in cold regions.

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