How is net ecosystem production (NEP) typically estimated in ecosystems?
A) by detecting the amount of heat energy released by the ecosystem
B) by measuring gas exchange from vegetation as well as estimates of respiration by all other organisms
C) by measuring the rate of decomposition by detritivores
D) by calculating the annual total of incoming solar radiation per unit of area

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

NEP is typically estimated by measuring the gas exchange (such as CO2 uptake) from vegetation, which gives an idea of the ecosystem's gross primary production, and then subtracting the respiration rates of all organisms in the ecosystem, including plants, animals, and microbes. This approach provides a net measure of the ecosystem's carbon sequestration ability or overall productivity.

How Is Net Ecosystem Production (NEP) Typically Estimated in Ecosystems