Carbon dioxide fluxes between land and atmosphere in catchments with contrasting land cover

Productive landscapes in dry regions play an important role in the economy of Australia and are more prone to environmental degradation. The main aim of this research is to investigate carbon dioxide exchange between land and atmosphere through field experiments and models. The study sites are two adjacent catchments in Southwestern Victoria; a livestock-grazed pasture and a blue gum plantation. The field analysis and modelling suggest that the magnitude and pattern of carbon dioxide exchange between land and atmosphere are affected by the land cover of catchments mainly driven by the moisture content of the soil.