Effects of Controlled SO 2 Exposure on Net Primary Production and Plant Biomass Dynamics

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Abstract
Effects of low level SO2 fumigation on above- and belowground plant biomass dynamics and aboveground net primary production were determined. Rates of increase in rhizome biomass over the 4-yr period of the study were reduced by SO2 and indicate that long-term exposure of this grassland to low level SO2 may ultimately reduce the vigor of the perennating organs to a point where above- and belowground biomass dynamics will be altered, net primary production will be reduced, and species composition will be modified. In addition, production of Bromus japonicus, a cool-season annual grass, was reduced by SO2 fumigation.