pmoA-gene-based diversity of methanotrophs in developing upland soils

Oxidation of methane (CH4) in well-drained, “upland” soils is an important mechanism for the removal of this potent greenhouse gas from the atmosphere. It is largely mediated by aerobic, methanotrophic bacteria. Whereas there is abundant information on atmospheric CH4 oxidation in mature upland soils, little is known about this important function in young, developing soils such as those found in glacier forefields, where new sediments are continuously exposed to the atmosphere as a result of glacial retreat.In this field-based study we investigated spatial and temporal variability of atmospheric CH4 oxidation and associated metanotrophic bacteria communities in Alpine glacier-forefield soils, aiming at better understanding factors that shape the sink for atmospheric CH4 in this young soil ecosystem.