Impacts of long-term nitrogen enrichment and water addition on soil enzyme activity in a typical steppe ecosystem
Abstract
Understanding the ecological consequences of nitrogen enrichment and altered water regimes in terrestrial ecosystems is of paramount importance in the face of global environmental changes. This study investigates the impacts of long-term nitrogen enrichment and water addition on soil enzyme activity in a representative steppe ecosystem. We conducted field experiments to simulate different nitrogen and water treatment scenarios over an extended period. Soil enzyme activities related to carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycling were assessed. Our findings reveal complex responses of soil enzyme activity to these environmental changes, highlighting the importance of considering both nitrogen and water as key drivers of ecosystem functioning in steppe environments.