The effects of air‐borne nitrogen pollutants on species diversity in natural and semi‐natural European vegetation

摘要: Summary The effects of increased atmospheric nitrogen inputs, from both NOy and NHx, on diversity in various semi-natural natural ecosystems are reviewed. The severity these impacts depends abiotic conditions (e.g. buffering capacity, soil nutrient status factors that influence the nitrification potential immobilization rate) particular system. sensitivity fresh water ecosystems, wetlands bogs, species-rich grasslands, heathlands field layer forests, all which have conservational value, discussed detail. The most important deposition are: (i) accumulation nitrogenous compounds resulting enhanced availability nitrate or ammonium; (ii) soil-mediated acidification; (iii) susceptibility to secondary stress factors. Long-term enrichment has gradually several vegetation types, leading competitive exclusion characteristic species by more nitrophilic plants, especially under oligo- mesotrophic conditions. Soil acidification (with losses capacity concentrations toxic metals) is after ammonium weakly buffered environments: acid-resistant plant then become dominant at expense often rare plants typical intermediate pH. related change balance between may also affect performance species. The (pathogens; frost drought) be affected air-borne but data only available for a few communities dry heathlands). Most global biodiversity contained within vegetation. It thus crucial control emissions atmosphere, order reduce prevent systems. Most research focused forestry stands lakes trees. We highlight serious gaps knowledge other ecosystems.