Biological phosphorus cycling in dryland regions

Jayne Belnap

doi:10.1007/978-3-642-15271-9_15

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Biological phosphorus cycling in dryland regions

Jayne Belnap

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Abstract

The relatively few studies done on phosphorus (P) cycling in arid and semiarid lands (drylands) show many factors that distinguish P cycling in drylands from that in more mesic regions. In drylands, most biologically relevant P inputs and losses are from the deposition and loss of dust. Horizontal and vertical redistribution of P is an important process. P is concentrated at the soil surface and thus vulnerable to loss via erosion. High pH and CaCO 3 limit P bioavailability, and low rainfall limits microbe and plant ability to free abiotically bound P via exudates, thus making it available for uptake. Many invasive plants are able to access recalcitrant P more effectively than are native plants. As P availability depends on soil moisture and temperature, climate change is expected to have large impacts on P cycling.

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Jayne Belnap. 2010-10-16. Biological phosphorus cycling in dryland regions. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-15271-9_15

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