Biogeochemical, in particular hydrological constraints affect biotic processes on the distribution, structure, and function of ecosystems, and on the cycles of water and elements (C,N,P,S). Drought stress affects soil respiration, evaporation and plant photosynthesis as well as transpiration.
The session addresses arid and semi-arid and drought-prone environments, where knowledge is still widely lacking. The session will provide information on (a) background and synthesis of new research approaches, and (b) recent results in the study of biogeochemical, ecological, hydrological processes and drought stress. Contributions are welcome on studies in arid and semi-arid ecosystems concerning (a) soil-vegetation-atmosphere interactions and (b) biogeochemical and eco-hydrological controls on water and nutrient availability of soils and plants (c)on the impact of land use change or land degradation on these processes and (d) effect and mechanisms of drought stress.