Acid and Mercury Deposition Effects on Forest and Freshwater Aquatic Ecosystems

Research output: Chapter in Book/Entry/PoemChapter

Abstract

Acid and mercury deposition originating from air pollution and can affect the structure and function of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Although naturally occurring, humans increase emissions of acidic compounds and mercury by the burning of fossil fuels, mining and agricultural activities. Acid deposition has impacted soils, forests, streams, and lakes prominently in eastern North America, northern and central Europe, and southeastern China. Human activities have increased atmospheric mercury deposition globally. Deposition of mercury to land and water is converted to methylmercury which bioaccumulates and is biomagnified along food chains resulting in exposure and health consequences to humans and wildlife.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Biodiversity, Third Edition
Subtitle of host publicationVolume 1-7
PublisherElsevier
PagesV4-351-V4-368
ISBN (Electronic)9780128225622
ISBN (Print)9780323984348
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2024

Keywords

  • Acid deposition
  • Acid neutralizing capacity
  • Acidification
  • Air pollution effects
  • Aluminum
  • Ammonium
  • Mercury
  • Methylation
  • Methylmercury
  • Nitrate
  • Nitrogen oxides
  • Soil base saturation
  • Sulfate
  • Sulfur dioxide and Trophic transfer

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences
  • General Environmental Science

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