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Ecosystem Biogeochemistry pp 31–40Cite as

Microbial Biogeochemistry

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Abstract

The biogeochemical cycles of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur are characterized by important gaseous pathways, biochemical transformations, immobilization processes, and mineralization reactions associated with microbial metabolism. Microbial organisms are thus important regulators of the source-sink behavior and cycling rates of these key elements in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. In addition, numerous other elements such as mercury, iron, and even phosphorus are affected directly or indirectly by microbial exudation, respiration, assimilation, oxidation-reduction, methylation, and acidification processes. Taken as a whole, microscopic bacteria and fungi have critical roles in controlling element cycles in the biosphere. The primary focus of this chapter is to explore the major microbial processes and associated environmental conditions influencing the biogeochemical behavior of nitrogen, sulfur, and carbon in the forest landscape.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Biology and Ecology, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA

    Christopher S. Cronan

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Cronan, C.S. (2018). Microbial Biogeochemistry. In: Ecosystem Biogeochemistry. Springer Textbooks in Earth Sciences, Geography and Environment. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-66444-6_3

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