Analyzes of the Carbon Fluxes in a Central Brazilian Floodplain

As a part of the Pantanl-Ecology-Project this study analyzed the carbon fluxes and possible disturbances of one of the Pantanal tributaries. Different vegetation zones were compared to see which of them can provide the most efficient organic carbon source for the stream. Furthermore we analyzed the nutrient input over land and how it is transported into the river and what are the reasons for the loss of organic carbon One of the main reasons is the erosion gully. It is caused by agricultural land use and enhances oxidation and leaching processes and therefore is responsible for the loss of organic carbon. As a consequence the stream is provided with less organic matter, which can lead to a modified vegetation cover. In this study the negative affect of the erosion gully on the stream-floodplain-system of the Crrego Tenente Amaral was shown and the need to protect its adjacent gallery forest, so that its maintaining and specific ecological functions can be maintained.