What is the difference between NEE and NEP?
NEE, or Net Ecosystem Exchange, is an instantaneous measurement of the inward and outward flows of carbon within an ecosystem. NEE is measured by eddy-flux towers to determine the amount of CO2 entering an ecosystem and the amount of carbon being lost through respiration simultaneously. NEP, or Net Ecosystem Production, is a measurement of the net gain (or loss) of energy/carbon in a system over a period of time. NEP, therefore, is NPP minus energy lost through heterotrophic respiration. NEP is expressed in flux units (g/m2yr) and is estimated based on long-term averages of NEE measurements. Potential exam question #2 Explain the differences between an upland and bottomland terrestrial ecosystem in regards to rate of decompositon, rate of production, and potential for Carbon storage. Upland ecosystems tend to have increased rates of decompostion and lower rates of production. Bottomland ecosystems tend to have lower rates of decompostion (due to standing water and thus lack of oxygen i
