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The effect of atmospheric SO2 pollution on the microflora of forest soils

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Abstract

The existing knowledge of the effects of industrial SO2 immissions on forest soil microflora is reviewed. Most Czechoslovak data were obtained in heavily polluted spruce stands in the Ore Mountain and in the Slavkov Forest (NW Bohemia). The industrial SO2 immissions soil. Pseudomonads yield to yellow-and red-pigmented microorganisms, among micromycetes there is a higher incidence of the generaRhizopus andMucor. The biochemical capabilities of the bacterial populations are reviewed: the immissions have a negative effect on the occurrence and efficiency of heterotrophic nitrifiers, increase the concentration of autotrophic as well as heterotrophic oxidizers of S0 and of sulfite-resistant bacteria. The soil activities of the C and N cycles are inhibited whereas the oxidation of S0 is stimulated. Changes in the soil of spruce stands are probably due to intoxication with sulfur dioxide (and possibly with sulfite) rather than to acidification. Replacement of withered spruce stands with mountain ash brings about a dramatic improvement of the soil microflora.

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  1. Forestry and Game Management Research Institute, 255 01, Zbraslav-Strnady, Czechoslovakia

    A. Lettl

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Lettl, A. The effect of atmospheric SO2 pollution on the microflora of forest soils. Folia Microbiol 29, 455–475 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02873159

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