The phosphorus transfer continuum: linking source to impact with an interdisciplinary and multi-scaled approach

A - Papers appearing in refereed journals

Haygarth, P. M., Condron, L. M., Heathwaite, A. L., Turner, B. L. and Harris, G. P. 2005. The phosphorus transfer continuum: linking source to impact with an interdisciplinary and multi-scaled approach. Science of the Total Environment. 344 (1-3), pp. 5-14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2005.02.001

AuthorsHaygarth, P. M., Condron, L. M., Heathwaite, A. L., Turner, B. L. and Harris, G. P.
Abstract

This critical review introduces a template that links phosphorus (P) sources and mobilisation processes to the delivery of P to receiving waters where deleterious impact is of concern. It therefore serves as a key introductory paper in this special issue. The entire process is described in terms of a ‘P transfer continuum’ to emphasise the interdisciplinary and inter-scale nature of the problem. Most knowledge to date is derived from mechanistic studies on the sources and mobilisation of P using controlled experiments that have formed the basis for mitigation strategies aimed at minimising transfer from agricultural fields. However, our ability to extrapolate this information to larger scales is limited by a poor knowledge base while new conceptual advances in the areas of complex systems and fractal dynamics indicate the limitations of past theoretical frameworks. This is compounded by the conceptual and physical separation of scientists working at different scales within the terrestrial and aquatic sciences. Multi-scaled approaches are urgently required to integrate different disciplines and provide a platform to develop mechanistic modelling frameworks, collect new data and identify critical research questions. 

KeywordsRRES175; 175_Ecology; 175_Hydrology; 175_Soil science
Year of Publication2005
JournalScience of the Total Environment
Journal citation344 (1-3), pp. 5-14
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2005.02.001
Open accessPublished as non-open access
Funder project or codeSoil Science and Environmental Quality (SSEQ)
Project: 2430 5219
Project: 2430 5223
Project: 2460 4035
Project: PE 0118
Project: PE 0113
Project: PE 0102
Publication dates
Online07 Apr 2005
PublisherElsevier
Elsevier Science Bv
Copyright licensePublisher copyright
ISSN0048-9697

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