Understanding Southern African Carbon Flux Variability through Satellite Data
A study by Eva-Marie Metz et al. used satellite measurements to analyze southern Africa’s carbon flux variability from 2009 to 2018. The research reveals that year-to-year variability is driven by photosynthesis linked to precipitation, while intra-year variability is primarily due to soil respiration after rewetting. The findings underscore the critical need for accurate models in predicting carbon dynamics in semi-arid areas.
In a study by Eva-Marie Metz from Heidelberg University, researchers utilized satellite GOSAT measurements of CO₂ concentrations in southern Africa from 2009 to 2018. This data was essential for refining global vegetation models (TRENDY) to explore carbon flux variability and cycling processes in the region. Results indicate that annual variability mainly derives from carbon uptake through photosynthesis in grasslands, closely linked to precipitation.
Conversely, intra-annual variability is largely driven by soil respiration that occurs after rewetting, coinciding with the rainy season’s onset. The insights gained from satellite-derived flux data highlight that accurately simulating these respiratory pulses is vital for projecting carbon dynamics, especially in semi-arid environments. These findings emphasize the importance of refined models to understand carbon cycling adequately.
The original research is published in Biogeosciences, issue 22, pages 555–584, in 2025. This underscores the importance of integrating satellite data into carbon modeling for better accuracy in analyses of ecological systems.
The study highlights how satellite measurements can enhance understanding of carbon flux variability in southern Africa. It identifies the primary factors influencing carbon dynamics, such as photosynthesis related to precipitation and soil respiration following rainfall. These insights stress the need for improved modeling techniques to predict future carbon dynamics in semi-arid regions accurately.
Original Source: www.nature.com
