Carbon Dynamics in Wetlands

Wetlands play a much greater role in the global carbon cycle than their area share would suggest. Plant biomass production and restricted decomposition due to continuous soil water saturation make them important atmospheric carbon sinks. This fragile stage can quickly tip towards being atmospheric sources by droughts and drainages. Therefore, they need to be protected to prevent accelerated climate feedbacks. Aim: This article explains and scales the individual processes conducive to carbon storage and carbon fluxes in different wetland types. Main concepts covered: Elements of the carbon cycle relevant to carbon dynamics in wetlands are explained. Main methods covered: Carbon analysis, biomass assessment (living, dead, above-ground, below-ground, dissolved). Conclusion/Outlook: Wetlands are globally threatened by expansion of agricultural areas, urbanization, drainage, and climate change. Their utmost importance for the global carbon and water cycles are insufficiently considered in land use policies. Their ecosystem functions like their carbon sequestration potential must be sustained by applying principles of natural flow dynamics, sustainable management, and nature-based solutions to enhance their disproportionally high share on ecosystem services.