Peatland research reveals key to thriving vegetation and nutrient balance.
Researchers studied peatland ecosystems in Newfoundland and Britain using survey methods to identify different plant associations and their nutrient levels. They found that the peatlands in Newfoundland have unique vegetation compared to Northern Europe, indicating continental conditions. The nutrient content in the plants varied based on the underlying peat substrata, with different plant groups having different nutrient demands. The growth of dominant moss species, Sphagnum recurvum, varied depending on the type of peatland. Overall, the study provides insights into the plant communities and nutrient dynamics in boreal peatlands.