How is net ecosystem production (NEP)typically estimated in ecosystems?
A) the ratio of producers to consumers
B) the amount of heat energy released by the ecosystem
C) the net flux of CO₂ or O₂ in or out of an ecosystem
D) the rate of decomposition by detrivores
E) the annual total of incoming solar radiation per unit of area

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Net ecosystem production (NEP) is typically estimated by measuring the net flux of CO₂ or O₂ in or out of an ecosystem, which is done using eddy covariance towers, chamber measurements, or satellite data. This represents the difference between the amount of carbon dioxide taken in by photosynthesis and the amount released through respiration and decomposition. A positive NEP indicates that an ecosystem is a net carbon sink, while a negative NEP indicates that it is a net carbon source. Option A is incorrect because the ratio of producers to consumers does not provide an estimate of NEP. Option B is incorrect because the amount of heat energy released by the ecosystem is not related to NEP. Option D is incorrect because the rate of decomposition by detrivores does not provide an estimate of NEP. Option E is incorrect because the annual total of incoming solar radiation per unit of area is not related to NEP.

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