Overgrazed grasslands tied to locust outbreaks
Locusts prefer low-nitrogen, high-carbohydrate diets, which are more likely on overgrazed plots. Nitrogen fertilizer may be an eco-friendly alternative pest control solution.
Nitrogen
Articles tagged with Nitrogen
Solutions for a nitrogen-soaked world
The report explores complex consequences of excess nitrogen on ecological communities, human health, and agriculture. Strategies to maximize efficient use of fertilizer and mitigate agricultural sources are also presented.
Team finds natural reasons behind nitrogen-rich forests
A team of scientists has discovered that high levels of nitrogen in tropical forests are caused by natural interactions between the forest and nutrient cycles. The study found evidence of large losses of bioavailable nitrogen from plant-soil interactions, not directly from atmospheric deposition.
Remote wilderness polluted by humans
A comprehensive study of 36 lakes in the USA, Canada, Greenland, and Svalbard reveals that biologically active nitrogen from human sources can be traced back to the end of the 19th century. The rate of change has accelerated over the past 60 years, coinciding with the commercialization of artificial fertilizer production.
Nitrogen from humans pollutes remote lakes for more than a century
Historical analysis of lake sediments reveals nitrogen pollution from human activities has polluted remote lakes worldwide for over a century. The findings suggest that excess nitrogen contributes to smog, acid rain, and water pollution in these ecosystems.
Researchers assess effects of a world awash in nitrogen
A recent study found that humans have doubled the rate of nitrogen inputs into global ecosystems since the industrial era, with significant effects on water quality and coastal marine fisheries. The increased nitrogen levels can lead to reduced water quality, economic costs and even impact human sustainability.
Artichokes grow big in Texas
A new study by Texas AgriLife Research found that artichoke yield and quality are optimized through differential irrigation regimes and nitrogen fertilizer rates. The researchers recommend approximately 700 mm of water inputs and 120 kg/ha or less of N for high marketable yields and optimal nutritional quality.
Graphene foam detects explosives, emissions better than today's gas sensors
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute researchers developed a graphene foam sensor that detects ammonia and nitrogen dioxide at concentrations as low as 20 parts-per-million, outperforming commercial gas sensors. The new technology is flexible, rugged, and reusable, making it suitable for various industrial applications.
New projection shows global food demand doubling by 2050
A new projection shows global food demand doubling by 2050, which could lead to significant environmental issues if not addressed. Increasing yield in poorer countries through adapted high-yielding technologies and efficient nitrogen fertilizers usage can help mitigate these effects.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2011
New projection shows global food demand doubling by 2050
A new projection suggests global food demand could double by 2050, putting a significant strain on the environment. If poor nations adopt high-yielding technologies and efficient nitrogen fertilizers, however, this burden can be reduced to half a billion acres.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 21, 2011
SLAC research cracks puzzle of enzyme critical to food supply
Researchers identified carbon as the key atom in nitrogenase, an enzyme that converts atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for living things. The discovery could lead to a more efficient and environmentally friendly method for manufacturing fertilizer.
In an enzyme critical for life, X-ray emission cracks mystery atom
Scientists used powerful synchrotron spectroscopy and computational modeling to reveal carbon as the mystery atom in nitrogenase, a complex enzyme crucial for life. The research was published online in Science and provides insight into the chemistry of how the cluster behaves, a step toward unraveling its mechanism.
Researchers gain insight into 100-year-old Haber-Bosch process
A team of chemists has gained new understanding of the Haber-Bosch process, which converts atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia. By mimicking the process in solution using an iron-potassium complex, they discovered that three iron atoms break the strong N-N bonds to form a complex with Fe3N2 core.
Nitrogen fertilizers' impact on lawn soils
Researchers measured gaseous nitrogen emissions in US lawns, finding denitrification removes excess nitrogen. Nitrogen removals were equivalent to 15% of annual fertilizer inputs, with most retained in lawn soils. The study's results are encouraging but highlight the need for further work on optimal soil management conditions.
Tropical forests are fertilized by air pollution
Scientists have discovered that human activities are perturbing the nitrogen cycle in tropical forests, leading to an increase in nitrogen levels. This finding has significant implications for tree communities and global change models.
Crop sensors outdo farmers at choosing nitrogen rates
Crop sensors outperformed farmers in choosing nitrogen rates for corn fields, resulting in average yield increases of almost 2 bushels per acre. The technology reduced excess N applied by 25% without harming yields, offering a potential solution to environmental concerns about fertilizer pollution.
U-M ecologist: Future forests may soak up more carbon dioxide than previously believed
A 12-year study found that future forests can grow faster under elevated carbon dioxide levels, outpacing assumptions of reduced growth due to climate change. The increased growth is sustained by enhanced soil nitrogen cycling and a greater ability for trees to absorb nitrogen from the soil.
Nitrate levels rising in northwestern Pacific
Researchers found increased nitrate levels in coastal waters of Korea and Japan since the 1980s, correlated with human-generated atmospheric nitrogen. This shift may influence marine plants and ecosystems, favoring organisms adapted to high nitrate conditions.
Feeding cows natural plant extracts can reduce dairy farm odors and feed costs
Feeding cows natural plant extracts can reduce dairy farm odors and feed costs. Adding tannins to cow feed reduces ammonia emissions from barn floors and fertilized fields by 28-49%. This study aims to provide a practical solution for the US dairy industry, which has been petitioned to regulate ammonia under the Clean Air Act.
Bedrock nitrogen may help forests buffer climate change, study finds
A study by UC Davis researchers suggests that forest trees can tap into nitrogen in rocks, increasing their growth and ability to pull carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This discovery could significantly affect how rapidly the earth will warm in the future.
Friend and foe: Nitrogen pollution's little-known environmental and human health threats
Excess nitrogen levels in air and water pose significant threats to human health, including respiratory problems and cancer risk. Nitrogen pollution also exacerbates climate change, but reducing it could lessen these impacts.
Nitrogen in the soil cleans the air
Soil nitrogen can remove pollutants from the atmosphere by forming hydroxyl radicals, which oxidize and wash out pollutants. The amount of nitrous acid released depends on soil acidity and water content.
Ecologist: Up-and-coming forests will remain important carbon sinks
A team of ecologists led by Ohio State University researchers found that younger, more diverse tree species are replacing aging aspens in the region's forests. These newer trees have higher light-use efficiency and can continue to store carbon, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions.
New study outlines economic and environmental benefits to reducing nitrogen pollution
A new study shows that reducing nitrogen pollution from wastewater treatment plants can come with significant economic benefits, including up to $600 million per year. The study also found that using emissions credits could create an incentive for utilities to adopt technologies that reduce climate pollution and improve water quality.
Researchers stumble on colorful discovery
Researchers have discovered modified rhodium that changes color in response to different gases, including nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon monoxide. This finding could lead to the development of more sensitive air quality sensors.
Plan to one day end the use of environmentally harmful chemicals on commercial crops developed
Researchers have published a step-by-step plan to replace environmentally harmful nitrogen fertilizers with genetically altered crops that can naturally process atmospheric nitrogen. This switch could reduce agricultural costs and environmental damage, saving the world $150 billion annually.
NASA's Aura Satellite measures pollution from New Mexico, Arizona fires
The NASA Aura Satellite has tracked the spread of nitrogen dioxide from New Mexico and Arizona wildfires, providing critical data on air quality. The satellite's Ozone Measuring Instrument (OMI) detected high levels of NO2 near the Las Conchas fire in New Mexico and the Wallow Fire in Arizona.
Sun and planets constructed differently, analysis from NASA mission suggests
The Genesis mission analysis shows differences in oxygen and nitrogen isotopes between the sun and rocky inner planets, including Earth. These findings suggest that the solar system's formation was more complex than previously thought.
Insight into plant behavior could aid quest for efficient biofuels
Researchers at University of Edinburgh discovered tiny seawater algae's survival strategies, which can aid in developing sustainable crops for biofuels and adapting to changing climates. The alga recycles nitrogen from its own body and absorbs alternative nutrients when food sources are scarce.
Solar wind samples give insight into birth of solar system
The Genesis mission has provided the first oxygen and nitrogen isotopic measurements of the Sun, showing significant differences from those on Earth. These results suggest that the solar system was formed through a complex process, with different astrophysical mechanisms contributing to the composition of space dust.
Ocean's harmful low-oxygen zones growing, are sensitive to small changes in climate
A new study reveals that ocean low-oxygen zones are expanding and contracting in response to climate changes, posing a significant threat to marine ecosystems. The research, led by UCLA scientists, found that these oxygen-depleted regions can have devastating effects on marine populations.
Researchers predict record Gulf of Mexico 'dead zone' due to Mississippi River flooding
A record-sized Gulf of Mexico 'dead zone' is expected, driven by massive amounts of nutrients from the Mississippi River. The predicted size could surpass 8,500 square miles, threatening major fisheries and ecosystems.
The diving bell and the water spider: How spiders breathe under water
The diving bell spider uses a gill-like structure to extract oxygen from stagnant water, allowing it to stay submerged for over a day. The spiders' metabolic rate is low, similar to other spiders that sit waiting for prey.
Sewage-derived nitrogen increasingly polluting Caribbean ecosystems
A recent study published in Global Change Biology reveals that sewage-derived nitrogen is becoming a dominant source of pollution in the Caribbean, threatening coral reefs and marine life. The researchers' findings suggest that poor stormwater management and wastewater treatment are to blame for this shift.
The urea cycle: An anabolic steroid for diatoms
A team of researchers has identified the urea cycle in diatoms as a key player in recycling inorganic carbon and nitrogen, enabling them to quickly recover from nutrient withdrawal and respond to changes in their environment. The discovery sheds new light on the evolutionary relationships between diatoms, plants, and animals.
New strategy aims to reduce agricultural ammonia
Researchers discovered that natural plant compounds known as tannins can reduce both nitrogen cow excretion and microbial enzyme activity in manure, resulting in a significant decrease in ammonia emissions. The study found that dietary tannin cut ammonia emissions from cows' manure by an average of 30%.
Genome of marine organism reveals hidden secrets
A team of researchers has deciphered the genome of a tropical marine organism, Lyngbya majuscula 3L, which produces substances with biomedical promise. The study provides insights into the genetics underlying their production and reveals key information about its limitations and shortcomings.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 9, 2011
Europe's wildlife under threat from nitrogen
A European study finds that over 60% of key wildlife sites receive excessive aerial nitrogen pollution, threatening biodiversity. Concerted action is needed to address the issue and link conservation, air pollution, and agricultural policies.
Excessive nitrogen harms the economy and environment -- first Europe-wide assessment published
A major new study reveals that nitrogen pollution is costing Europe around £60-£280 billion annually, more than double the income gained from using nitrogen fertilizers. The report also identifies key threats, including toxic algal blooms, air pollution, and loss of plant diversity.
Improve crop yield by removing manure solids
Removing manure solids through a low-cost two-stage lagoon system increases nitrogen to phosphorus ratio, reducing environmental damage. This results in higher crop yields and greater nitrogen recovery compared to using whole manure.
UCLA engineers demonstrate use of proteins as raw material for biofuels, biorefining
Researchers at UCLA have successfully demonstrated the feasibility of using proteins as a significant raw material for biorefining and biofuel production. This breakthrough could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions by recycling nitrogen from protein biomass.
Environmental impact of animal waste
Researchers found that anaerobic lagoons in North and South Carolina have high levels of nitrogen-cycling genes but low denitrification enzyme activity, leading to acidification and eutrophication of surrounding ecosystems. The study highlights the need for improved waste management practices to minimize environmental harm.
Abundant ammonia aids life's origins
Researchers found large amounts of ammonia in an asteroid, which could have provided a sustained source of reduced nitrogen essential for life. This discovery has significant implications for the origins-of-life theory and the potential for extraterrestrial life.
SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2011
Notre Dame research offers important clues about grasshopper population explosions
The study reveals that no single factor leads to a grasshopper outbreak, but rather multiple interacting factors are necessary. Grasshoppers have a significant impact on plants by altering nitrogen cycles in grasslands, which can either increase or decrease plant production depending on the type of vegetation they feed on.
Overfertilizing corn undermines ethanol
A new study by Rice University researchers reveals that overfertilizing corn crops for ethanol production can lead to decreased cellulose content in plant residues, making it more difficult to extract ethanol. The study suggests using less fertilizer can improve feedstock quality and alleviate environmental damage.
New free, hands-on tool supports sustainable living choices
A new free web-based tool calculates an individual's nitrogen footprint, measuring its impact on the environment and providing recommendations for reducing it. The tool aims to raise awareness about the nitrogen dilemma and encourage people to take action to mitigate its effects.
AAAS news briefs from UC Davis
Researchers at UC Davis are presenting innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, including electrification of vehicles and producing biofuels. The university is also exploring celestial superfluids, which offer potential breakthroughs in materials science and technology.
Cold winters mean more pollution
Researchers found a strong link between climate and air pollution in Gothenburg, where extreme cold air from Siberia leads to high nitrogen oxide concentrations. The study, published in Atmospheric Environment, shows that air quality standards were exceeded more frequently during negative NAO phases.
Biogeochemistry at the core of global environmental solutions
A new framework for understanding biogeochemical cycles highlights the importance of balancing human needs with the health of the planet. This integrated view could help predict and manage climate change, improve sustainable forestry practices, and balance agricultural needs with estuary health.
SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 9, 2011
Earth's life support systems discussed in an open-access special issue
A new special issue explores the interconnectedness of life on Earth through biogeochemical cycles. Key findings highlight the crucial role of microbes like chemolithotrophic microbes in transforming raw materials into biomass, supporting complex food webs.
'Hot-bunking' bacterium recycles iron to boost ocean metabolism
A marine bacterium uses a biochemical trick to recycle iron, conserving precious metal for photosynthesis and nitrogen production. This strategy, called 'hot bunking,' allows the organism to thrive in iron-poor waters, increasing ocean productivity.
SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 10, 2011
High nitrogen fertilizers tested on post-transplant ornamentals
Researchers found that high-nitrogen fertilizers can accelerate establishment of areca palm and Chinese hibiscus, but also induce magnesium deficiency. A balanced approach with moderate nitrogen levels is recommended for optimal plant quality.
New research contains solutions to common pear disease
A new study by Oregon State University and USDA-Agricultural Research Service found that a combination of urea and CuEDTA with phosphonate-containing fungicides can reduce disease severity caused by Phytophthora syringae in pear trees. This treatment does not negatively impact tree nitrogen content or early defoliation.
UNH scientists help show potent GHG emissions are 3 times estimated levels
Researchers from UNH found nitrous oxide emissions from global rivers and streams to be three times previous estimates, with waterways contributing significantly to human-caused nitrous oxide emissions. The study highlights the need for continued scientific research on drivers of climate change and potential solutions to reduce emissions.
SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2010
Ocean acidification changes nitrogen cycling in world seas
Marine scientists found that ocean acidification decreases nitrification rates globally, which could lead to reduced nitrous oxide emissions. This decrease may also shift the available form of dissolved nitrogen in surface oceans, favoring certain plant species.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2010
Global rivers emit 3 times IPCC estimates of greenhouse gas nitrous oxide
Researchers found that global river networks are the source of at least 10% of human-caused nitrous oxide emissions to the atmosphere, three times the IPCC estimate. Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change and stratospheric ozone destruction.
SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2010
Dodds contributes to new national study on nitrogen water pollution
A new national study reveals that streams and rivers produce significantly higher greenhouse gas emissions than previously estimated, with nitrous oxide emissions from river networks making up at least 10 percent of human-caused emissions. This research highlights the importance of effective mitigation strategies to reduce nitrogen inp...
SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2010
Rising greenhouse gases profoundly impact microscopic marine life
A study by UC Merced marine biologist Michael Beman reveals that rising greenhouse gases are making ocean water more acidic, fundamentally altering the way nitrogen cycles throughout the sea. This change could have significant impacts on all forms of marine life.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2010
Waterways contribute to growth of potent greenhouse gas
A Michigan State University study found that rivers and streams are a significant source of nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas, contributing twice as much as previously estimated. The increased production can be linked to nitrogen fertilizers and crop cultivation, highlighting the need for reduced agricultural fertilizer use.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2010
New study focuses on nitrogen in waterways as cause of nitrous oxide in the atmosphere
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame discovered that streams and rivers are a significant source of nitrous oxide emission, a potent greenhouse gas. The study found that human activities such as fertilizer use and sewage discharges increase nitrogen levels in waterways, leading to higher nitrous oxide production rates.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2010