Southern African Carbon Flux Variability: Insights from Satellite Data

Eva-Marie Metz and her team investigated carbon flux variability in southern Africa using GOSAT satellite data from 2009-2018. They found that year-to-year variability is largely due to photosynthesis driven by rainfall, while within-year variability is influenced by soil respiration. The study stresses the importance of accurately modeling these processes for predicting carbon dynamics in semi-arid areas.

A research study led by Eva-Marie Metz of Heidelberg University utilized satellite measurements from the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) to analyze CO₂ concentrations across southern Africa from 2009 to 2018. The study aimed to refine global vegetation models, particularly the TRENDY models, enabling researchers to examine carbon flux variability and cycling processes in this region. The findings reveal that interannual variability in carbon uptake is primarily driven by photosynthesis in southern grasslands, which is significantly influenced by precipitation levels.

In contrast, the study identified that intra-annual variability is mainly governed by soil respiration, particularly following rewetting during the rainy season. The research emphasizes the importance of accurately representing these soil respiration pulses in climate models to enhance projections of carbon dynamics in semi-arid regions. These results highlight how satellite-derived flux data can inform and improve understanding of carbon cycling in challenging environmental conditions.

In summary, the research by Metz and colleagues underscores the critical role of photosynthesis and soil respiration in determining carbon flux variability in southern Africa. By leveraging satellite data, the study enhances our understanding of the region’s carbon dynamics and emphasizes the need for accurate modeling in semi-arid zones. These insights are vital for projecting future carbon cycles under different climate scenarios.

Original Source: www.nature.com