Carbon dioxide measurement in Irish blanket peatlands: An assessment of pool-soil flux variability.

Peatlands have been recognised as having a significant role in the mediation of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO 2) levels with direct implications for global climate change. Longitudinal in situ measurement systems for CO 2 concentrations in blanket peatland ecosystems are difficult to implement where the nature of terrestrial–aquatic connectivity and hydrodynamics have a significant effect on the carbon cycle. The need for greater data on CO 2 concentrations and flux monitoring in these settings has been well recognised. However, applying the most appropriate monitoring approach presents a special challenge. This paper sets out the development of a direct method for field based longitudinal CO 2 concentration measurement. Based on experiential considerations a new approach is presented that addresses the complexity associated with the high diurnal dynamics of CO 2 evasion during mid-winter in an Irish blanket peatland soil–water system. The paper outlines the significance of a direct in situ continuous measurement strategy using a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor to evaluate CO 2 concentrations. The CO 2 concentrations recorded as part of this study showed significant differences between the pond waters and the peat waters. The overall CO 2 concentration trend did not correlate with the temperature patterns. Further monitoring is essential to evaluate the spatial and longitudinal trends in carbon dynamics. Outputs of this study will have a direct bearing on approaches to carbon flux determinations for this landscape type and will provide an important input to future efforts to explore carbon-hydrodynamics in the surface and sub-surface waters of blanket peatlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]