Microbial ecology of Alpine and High Arctic soils in changing climate

Ing. Mgr. Petra LULÁKOVÁ

Doctoral thesis

Abstract:

This study has contributed to a deeper understanding of certain aspects of initial soil development in the extreme environments of the High Arctic and the High Alpine regions. Specifically, we have examined the impact of geochemistry on the initial microbial succession following deglaciation and its subsequent transition toward the predominant influence of pioneer plants over time and the process of SOC stabilization. Our focus has been on understanding substrate-microbial and plant-microbial interactions, particularly with regards to nutrient availability and stoichiometry. In addition to investigations carried out in the High Arctic regions, we conducted an incubation experiment in the High Alps. This experiment aimed to explore nutrient availability for microorganisms in relation to their response to varying high temperatures, which are observed under ongoing climate change.

Abstract:

This study has contributed to a deeper understanding of certain aspects of initial soil development in the extreme environments of the High Arctic and the High Alpine regions. Specifically, we have examined the impact of geochemistry on the initial microbial succession following deglaciation and its subsequent transition toward the predominant influence of pioneer plants over time and the process of SOC stabilization. Our focus has been on understanding substrate-microbial and plant-microbial interactions, particularly with regards to nutrient availability and stoichiometry. In addition to investigations carried out in the High Arctic regions, we conducted an incubation experiment in the High Alps. This experiment aimed to explore nutrient availability for microorganisms in relation to their response to varying high temperatures, which are observed under ongoing climate change.

Keywords

Arctic soils, biogeochemistry, deglaciation, glacier forefield, microbial assembly, soil succession, alpine soils, SOC stabilization, plant-microbial interaction, rhizosphere soils, willow exudation

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 12. 3. 2024

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: prof. Ing. Hana Šantrůčková, CSc.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH BOHEMIA IN ČESKÉ BUDĚJOVICE

Faculty of Science

Doctoral programme / field:
Biology / Ecosystem Biology