Field and lab conditions alter microbial enzyme and biomass dynamics driving decomposition of the same leaf litter SUMMARY: This study looked at the rate of decay between litter in lab conditions and natural conditions. They used fallen leaves from dogwood trees, oak trees, maple trees, and maple-oak tree mix. Results showed quite a difference in… Continue reading Field and lab conditions alter microbial enzyme and biomass dynamics
Tag: biogeochemical cycles
Impacts of Biogeochemical Redox Processes
Biogeochemical Redox Processes and their Impact on Contaminant Dynamics SUMMARY: Reduction and oxidation reactions are the drivers behind many biological processes. Energy is both stored and transferred through these reactions. This article talks about the various redox reactions that can occur, both biotically and abiotically, and how that affects both biogeochemical cycles and contaminants. The… Continue reading Impacts of Biogeochemical Redox Processes
Environmental impacts on the diversity of methane-cycling microbes and their resultant function
Environmental impacts on the diversity of methane-cycling microbes and their resultant function SUMMARY: There are two types of microbes that are involved in methane cycling: ones that produce methane (methanogens) and ones that use methane as a source of energy and convert it to carbon dioxide (methanotrophs). This article review looked at all the different… Continue reading Environmental impacts on the diversity of methane-cycling microbes and their resultant function
The evolution of diatoms and their biogeochemical functions
The evolution of diatoms and their biogeochemical functions SUMMARY: This article talks about the evolution, cell structure, and ecological role of diatoms. The first section is an introduction to what diatoms are. The second section talks about the evolution of photosynthesis (from cyanobacteria to eukaryotes with chloroplast). The third section explains the significance of the… Continue reading The evolution of diatoms and their biogeochemical functions
Protozoa in Wastewater Treatment Processes
Protozoa in wastewater treatment processes: A minireview SUMMARY: This is a short review of the role protozoa play in wastewater treatment plants. Most of the protozoa are ciliates and they graze on bacteria, excrete nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon waste, and are used as indicators of water quality. Toxins such as heavy metals, salts, and other… Continue reading Protozoa in Wastewater Treatment Processes