Potential impacts of climate change on biogeochemical functioning of Cerrado ecosystems

Climate change is poised to shift the Cerrado savanna from a carbon sink to a source, potentially intensifying fire regimes and reducing nutrient stocks. This study synthesizes data on biogeochemical functioning in Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks, revealing that while Cerrado ecosystems currently act as carbon sinks annually, they release CO2 near the end of the dry season due to conservative nutrient cycles dominated by soil organic matter and root systems. Projected increases in temperature, reduced rainfall, and longer dry seasons—particularly in northeastern regions—could exacerbate these dynamics, threatening biodiversity and ecosystem stability. The research highlights the need for new modeling approaches to account for the Cerrado's spatial heterogeneity and land-use changes when projecting climate impacts.

Bustamante, M., Nardoto, G., Pinto, A., Resende, J., Takahashi, F., & Vieira, L. (2012). Potential impacts of climate change on biogeochemical functioning of Cerrado ecosystems. Brazilian Journal of Biology, 72(3 suppl), 655–671. https://doi.org/10.1590/s1519-69842012000400005