Biogeochemical Processes on Tree Islands in the Greater Everglades: Initiating a New Paradigm

Authors

Paul R. Wetzel, Department of Biological Sciences, Smith CollegeFollow
Fred H. Sklar, South Florida Water Management DistrictFollow
Carlos A. Coronado, South Florida Water Management District
Tiffany Troxler-Gann, Southeast Environmental Research Center and Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International UniversityFollow
Steven L. Krupa, South Florida Water Management District
Pamela L. Sullivan, Department of Earth and Environment, Florida International UniversityFollow
Sharon Ewe, Ecology and EnvironmentFollow
René M. Price, Southeast Environmental Research Center and Department of Earth and Environment, Florida International UniversityFollow
Susan Newman, South Florida Water Management DistrictFollow
William H. Orem, U.S. Geological Survey

Abstract

Scientists’ understanding of the role of tree islands in the Everglades has evolved from a plant community of minor biogeochemical importance to a plant community recognized as the driving force for localized phosphorus accumulation within the landscape. Results from this review suggest that tree transpiration, nutrient infiltration from the soil surface, and groundwater flow create a soil zone of confluence where nutrients and salts accumulate under the head of a tree island during dry periods. Results also suggest accumulated salts and nutrients are flushed downstream by regional water flows during wet periods. That trees modulate their environment to create biogeochemical hot spots and strong nutrient gradients is a significant ecological paradigm shift in the understanding of the biogeochemical processes in the Everglades. In terms of island sustainability, this new paradigm suggests the need for distinct dry-wet cycles as well as a hydrologic regime that supports tree survival. Restoration of historic tree islands needs further investigation but the creation of functional tree islands is promising.

Comments

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation through the Florida Coastal Everglades Long-Term Ecological Research program under Cooperative Agreements #DBI-0620409 and #DEB-9910514. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in the material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

Recommended Citation

Wetzel, P., F.H. Sklar, C. Coronado-Molina, T. Troxler, S.L. Krupa, P. Sullivan, S.M.L. Ewe, R.M. Price, S. Newman, W.H. Orem. 2011. Biogeochemical Processes on Tree Islands in the Greater Everglades: Initiating a New Paradigm. Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology 41(S1): 670-701.