Influence of spatial orientation of Sphagnum spp. on pH in bogs.

Abstract

Sphagnum spp., while not able to completely control the acidity of their environment, do exhibit the ability to lower pH. Thus, they are not only able to adapt to their environment, but to change it. As Sphagnum spp. did impact the surrounding pH but did not determine it, we further predict that pH in bogs may be affected by a variety of other factors. High rate of evaporation in bogs could decrease pH of the environment. The influence of the lake could be further explored. The interaction of different plants in close proximity to Sphagnum spp. could effect pH. Differing amounts of nutrients could determine final pH and acidification rates of Sphagnum spp. These variables may work in conjunction with the factors of spatiality discussed in this study, or independently.