Collaborative Rsch: Species Responses To Changes In Climate Across Arctic Gradients Using The North American ITEX Network (NATEX): Influences On Community and Ecosystem Processe

研究人员将继续向国际苔原实验（ITEX）提供美国组件。 ITEX 在整个北极地区进行了一项非常简单的实验，以研究全球变暖对北极苔原的潜在影响。 小型的顶部开放的有机玻璃锥体被放置在苔原上，导致大气温度升高 2-4 度，与预测的大气温度相似，这是由于温室气体排放增加导致大气中二氧化碳含量增加一倍。 在锥体内部和外部测量植物变量，以确定诱发变暖造成的影响。 操纵加热实验产生的苔原变化的关系用于预测未来因全球变暖而发生的变化。 美国研究部门与加拿大研究人员一起在 Toolik Lake、Atqasuk 和 Barrow 阿拉斯加以及加拿大的一个地点开展了一项研究计划。 ITEX项目的结果对于可靠预测北极苔原对全球变暖的反应非常重要。 这些预测对于了解北极在全球碳循环中的作用以及自然资源应对全球变化的可持续性至关重要。

The researchers will continue to provide the US component to the International Tundra EXperiment (ITEX). ITEX uses a very simple experiment throughout the Arctic to examine the potential effects of global warming on Arctic tundra. Small open-topped plexiglass cones are placed on the tundra to cause a 2-4 degree warming similar to that predicted for atmospheric temperatures in response to a doubling of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere from increased emission of greenhouse gases. Botanical variables are measured within and outside the cones to determine effects caused by the induced warming. The relationship of the changes in the tundra produced by the manipulative heating experiment are used to predict future change occurring in response to global warming. The US research component of conducts a research program at Toolik Lake, Atqasuk, and Barrow Alaska and at one site in Canada in conjunction with Canadian researchers. The results of the ITEX Project are very important for reliable forecasts of the response of Arctic tundra to global warming. Those forecasts are critical to understanding the role of the Arctic in the global carbon cycle and the sustainability of natural resources in response to global change.