Effect of invasive Typha x glauca on denitrification potential and quality in Cheboygan Marsh, northern Michigan.

Abstract

The results of this study show the strong impact of Typha legacy and water level factors on total DN. As Typha invades, the buildup of organic matter from accumulation and subsequent decomposition of litter leads to an overall increase in available organic carbon to denitrifying soil microbes that increases their potential total DN rates. The concomitant drying of wetland soils due to excess buildup of organic matter and subsequent terrestrialization, however, has the capability to significantly reduce a wetland’s ability to denitrify (Figure 8). From these findings, we propose the flooding of invaded and terrestrialized wetlands as a possible wetland management strategy for the restoration of DN potential. Such an event would restore the conditions under which DN is optimized: high organic carbon, high inorganic nitrogen, and low redox potential.