The impact of rising atmospheric CO2 and nitrogen deposition on plant biodiversity is a growing concern among environmental scientists. These two factors are causing significant negative effects on plant species richness, with nitrogen deposition contributing to global biodiversity loss.

A 24-year long study involving 108 grassland plots aimed to understand the intricate relationship between elevated CO2 levels and nitrogen deposition, and how they impact biodiversity. Initially, the study found that nitrogen decreased plant species richness less at high CO2 levels. However, with time, this interaction reversed, with high CO2 levels amplifying the biodiversity losses due to nitrogen enrichment.

The conclusion drawn from this study suggests that the abundance of dominant species in many grasslands will likely increase due to the combined effect of CO2 and nitrogen. This could potentially worsen the negative impacts of nitrogen deposition on plant diversity. The potential negative impact on global grassland biodiversity due to rising CO2 levels is a significant concern for conservation efforts, and it is something that needs to be addressed urgently.

The study further revealed that elevated CO2 levels nearly tripled species losses due to long-term simulated nitrogen pollution. The number of plant species per plot reduced by an average of 7% at ambient carbon dioxide levels and by a whopping 19% at elevated carbon dioxide levels.

The BioCON experiment, which was part of the study, showed that the application of both nitrogen and carbon dioxide promoted plant growth. However, this led to competitive exclusion where a few dominant species out-competed others for sunlight.

The interaction between elevated CO2 and nitrogen deposition presents a significant challenge to maintaining plant biodiversity. The study’s findings highlight the urgency of addressing the impacts of these atmospheric changes on our ecosystems. The knowledge gained from this study can inform science-based strategies for protecting and preserving the world’s grassland ecosystems amid a changing climate.

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