Summary
This multi-site study across Northern Europe examined how drainage and rewetting of peatlands alter microbial metabolism by analysing stable nitrogen isotopes and fatty acid biomarkers in soil cores from natural and managed sites. The research identified a characteristic δ15N turning point in drained horizons that reflects a shift from fungal to bacterial dominance as oxygen availability declines, providing a potential cost-effective indicator for assessing peatland condition and restoration success.
UK applicability
The findings are relevant to UK peatland management and restoration, particularly in upland regions of Scotland, Wales and Northern England where degraded peatlands are widespread and restoration efforts are intensifying. The δ15N profiling method could support monitoring programmes for UK peatland condition and inform adaptive management of drainage and rewetting interventions.
Key measures
δ15N depth profiles; fungal-derived fatty acids (C18:2ω9c); bacterial-derived fatty acids (C14:0, i-C15:0, a-C15:0, C16:1ω9c); microbial community composition; soil oxygen gradients
Outcomes reported
The study measured nitrogen stable isotope (δ15N) depth profiles and fatty acid composition to characterise shifts in microbial community composition across natural, drained and rewetted peatland sites. Results identified a distinct δ15N turning point in drained horizons that reflects the transition from fungal to bacterial-dominated metabolism in response to oxygen limitation.
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