Balancing the solar irradiance needs: optimising growth in sphagnum palustre through tailored UV-B effects.

backgroundThe carbon sequestration potential and water retention capacity of peatlands are closely linked to the growth dynamics of Sphagnum mosses. However, few studies have focused on the response of Sphagnum moss growth dynamics to UV-B radiation, and existing research has emphasized species differences. In this study, Sphagnum palustre L., a dominant species in the peatlands of Southern China, was selected as a research subject, and its response to UV-B radiation has not been reported before.

resultsIn the field, the morphology and growth differences of Sphagnum palustre under microhabitats with varying UV-B radiation intensities were monitored. Our findings revealed that the height of Sphagnum palustre increased the most in the microhabitats (Juncus community) with the weakest UV-B radiation, however the capitate branch area and biomass of Sphagnum palustre were highest under the Fern community, where UV-B radiation was attenuated by 50% during the summer. In the laboratory, we established four levels of UV-B radiation treatments: 0 MJ/m

conclusionThis study suggests that the intensity of UV-B radiation can be artificially regulated to optimize the growth of Sphagnum, accelerate peatland restoration, and enhance the yield of artificially cultivated Sphagnum moss.