Summary
This study demonstrates that nitrogen stable isotope depth profiles and microbial fatty acid composition can serve as cost-effective biomarkers for assessing peatland condition and restoration success. Across five European peatlands, the authors identified a consistent δ15N turning point in drained horizons that reflects the transition from fungal-dominated (aerobic) to bacterial-dominated (anaerobic) decomposition pathways. The findings suggest that these molecular signatures offer practical tools for monitoring peatland ecosystem health in response to drainage and rewetting interventions.
UK applicability
The methodology is directly applicable to UK peatlands, which are extensive and extensively drained for agricultural and forestry use. Given the UK government's commitment to peatland restoration under climate and biodiversity policy, these molecular monitoring tools could support cost-efficient assessment of restoration outcomes across degraded peatland areas.
Key measures
δ15N stable isotope values; fungal-derived fatty acids (C18:2ω9c); bacterial-derived fatty acids (C14:0, i-C15:0, a-C15:0, C16:1ω9c)
Outcomes reported
The study identified δ15N depth profiles and microbial fatty acid composition as indicators of peatland degradation and restoration. Results showed a distinct δ15N turning point in drained horizons corresponding to a shift from fungal-dominated to bacterial-dominated microbial metabolism.
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