Dissertation Research: Mechanisms Controlling Decomposition Dynamics Along a Phosphorus Availability Gradient in Fresh- Water Wetlands

在磷有限的湿地生态系统中，控制分解和相关营养动态的因素将被研究。凋落物质量和环境因素对分解的影响将通过实验室和田间试验来确定。凋落物质量变量将包括养分和木质素含量。环境变量将包括无机磷的有效性和氧化还原电位。标准方法将被用来测量腐烂率和营养动态。提出的研究是一个合适的学位论文选题。Bridgham先生在Richardson博士的指导下，一定会为我们理解湿地生态系统中的分解做出贡献。杜克大学优秀的研究设施将提供进行拟议研究所需的所有支持。

Factors that control decomposition and associated nutrient dynamics in phosphorus-limited wetland ecosystems will be studied. The effects of litter quality and environmental factors on decomposition will be determined with laboratory and field experiments. Litter quality variables will include nutrient and lignin content. Environmental variables will include inorganic P availablity and redox potential. Standard methods will be used to measure decay rates and nutrient dynamics. The proposed research is an appropriate dissertation topic. Mr. Bridgham, under the guidance of Dr. Richardson, will certainly make contributions to our understanding of decomposition in wetland ecosystems. The excellent research facilities at Duke University will provide all of the support needed to conduct the proposed research.