How Do Belowground Components Contribute to the Healthy Functioning of Ecological Systems?.

Format:

Video

Series:

Academic Video Online

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Biogeochemical cycles.

Radioisotopes in biology.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (8 minutes)

Place of Publication:

[Place of publication not identified] : Latest Thinking, [date of publication not identified]

System Details:

video file

Summary:

Being easier to observe, the aboveground components of ecological systems tend to be considered of predominant importance. In this video, STEFAN SCHEU explains the extent to which the healthy functioning of these systems is dependent on what happens underground. With visual observation impossible, Scheu employs isotope labeling to trace the paths taken by particular elements belowground. Where it was heretofore understood that aboveground litter material provided a major source of food for belowground organisms, Scheu's study shows that the great majority of carbon enters the underground system via plant roots. With undoubted relevance for agricultural productivity and conservation, Scheu's research draws attention to the vital ecological contribution of phenomena that occur out of human sight.

Notes:

Title from resource description page (viewed August 24, 2020).

Part of the metadata in this record was created by AI.