METNET - Methane and soil - tree networks: Adding dimensions to greenhouse-gas studies
Metnet group exploring Lettosuo. Persons from left: Eeva-Stiina Tuittila (UEF), Mari Pihlatie (UH), Marjo Palviainen (UH), Tiia Grönholm (UH), Maarit Raivonen (UH), Ari Laurén (UEF), Vincent Gauci (University of Birmingham), Iñaki Urzainki (Luke). Perti Kiuru (UEF) rightmost up photo.
Peatlands are a major source of methane (CH4) globally. Lack of a simulation model describing CH4 transport from peat through trees to atmosphere is a key bottle neck in assessing the global importance of tree mediated CH4 emissions. An innovative method for computing CH4 production, consumption and transport will be constructed by combining cutting-edge X-ray tomography, network science and simulation techniques. Three dimensional pore systems of tropical, temperate and boreal peats and methane conducting tree tissues will be imaged using X-ray tomography; and used to create networks of interconnected pipes. Process-based methane computation will be done in this domain. Controlled laboratory manipulation experiments and field experiments are used in developing and validating the simulation model. Flexible and general network modelling approach has not yet been applied within greenhouse gas modelling. It has potential to profoundly renew the ecosystem modelling paradigm and research.
Cooperation
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Other group members
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Petri Kiuru, PhD, physics [email protected]
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Iñaki Urzainki, MSc, UEF/Luke, physics [email protected]
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Vincent Gauci, professor, University of Birmingham, methane processes [email protected]
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Maarit Raivonen, docent, University of Helsinki, methane modelling [email protected]
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Sanjay Swadrup, assicaite professor, National University Singapore, soil microbiology [email protected]
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Tiia Grönholm, PhD, University of Helsinki, 3D-tomography [email protected]
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Mari Pihlatie, associate professor, University of Helsinki, methane processes, [email protected]
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Teemu Hölttä, professor, University of Helsinki, plant physics [email protected]
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Marjo Palviainen, docent, University of Helsinki, biogeochemistry, soil science [email protected]