Ecosystem metabolism estimates from the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) stream and river sites.

Abstract

Expanded availability of estimates of ecosystem metabolism and gas exchange from the worlds streams and rivers is rapidly revising estimates of river contributions to global carbon budgets. Here, we present estimates of gross primary production, ecosystem respiration, and gas exchange from 27 streams and rivers across North America, including Puerto Rico, using data from the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). Further, we explore how aggregating and processing input data influences model outputs, expanding the methodological knowledge in approaching sensor collection and manipulation for ecosystem-scale modelling. We apply filters to input data to determine how different approaches to quality control of raw data influence the quantity and precision of estimates of ecosystem metabolism. Model estimates are high priority measures of ecosystem function that integrate additional NEON data products that will allow further understanding of stream and river biogeochemistry and ecosystem function across time and space.