Nitrogen Dynamics and Losses in Peatlands Exposed to Wildfires

Strategic Insights -

Peatland wildfires are increasingly severe due to climate change and anthropogenic activities, posing significant threats to carbon and nitrogen storage in these ecosystems. A recent study in western Finland examined the impact of two large-scale wildfires on carbon and nitrogen dynamics in peatlands. The research revealed significant carbon and nitrogen losses in drained peatlands, exceeding typical ranges reported for undrained boreal mires.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that high-intensity fires in drained peatlands resulted in average carbon losses of approximately 5.5 kg C m-2 and nitrogen losses of around 123 g N m-2.
  • Well-drained peatlands used for forestry experienced significantly higher carbon and nitrogen losses compared to undrained or poorly drained areas.
  • The fire severity was influenced by drainage intensity and vegetation communities, with undrained mires showing lower carbon loss, but variable water regimes leading to comparable losses in shallow mires.
  • The researchers emphasized the importance of understanding ecosystem services provided by peatlands, considering management-related drivers such as drainage and fires.
  • The study suggests that drained peatlands are more vulnerable to wildfires, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect carbon and nitrogen storage in these ecosystems.

Statistics:

  • Carbon losses in drained peatlands during the fire: approximately 5.5 kg C m-2.
  • Nitrogen losses in drained peatlands during the fire: around 123 g N m-2.
  • Burned peatland area in Muhos, Finland: 217 ha.
  • Burned peatland area in Susineva, Finland: 130 ha.
  • Range of carbon loss in undrained boreal mires: typically 1.5-3 kg C m-2.
  • Range of carbon loss in well-drained peatlands experiencing fires: typically 4-7 kg C m-2.

Sources:

  • The impact of large fires in boreal drained peatlands in western Finland: Ecohydrological drivers and carbon and nitrogen loss. Geoderma, 2025,459():117358. (Elsevier)
  • News article: NewsRx. Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) Researchers Publish New Data on Nitrogen (The impact of large fires in boreal drained peatlands in western Finland: Ecohydrological drivers and carbon and nitrogen loss). Chemicals & Chemistry. July 11, 2025; p 1556.
  • Research team: Jukka Turunen (Geological Survey of Finland, GTK), Sakari Rehell, Sakari Sarkkola, Harri Vasander.