IAI-Data-CRN_012_Austin_BIOD-NITR: Effects of autotrophic nitrification on C and N cycling in the Patagonian steppe

Human activities are altering biodiversity and the N cycle globally, affecting marine and terrestrial carbon cycling. Only a few specialized bacteria carry out nitrification in terrestrial ecosystems, and determine the form and mobility of inorganic N in soils. However, the control of these bacteria on carbon cycling is poorly understood. This study was an ecosystem experiment in the Patagonian steppe where we inhibited autotrophic nitrification and measured its effects on C and N cycling. These data were collected as part of the project CRN 012 examining the effects of biodiversity on ecosystem functioning, led by Dr. Osvaldo Sala and with the collaboration of Rob Jackson.