Seasonal effect on N2O formation in nitrification in constructed wetlands

Constructed wetlands are considered to be important sources of nitrous oxide (N2O). In order to investigate the contribution of nitrification in N2O formation, some environmental factors, plant species and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) in active layers have been compared. Vegetation cells indicated remarkable effect of seasons and different plant species on N2O emission and AOB amount. Nitrous oxide data showed large temporal and spatial fluctuations ranging 0–52.8 mg N2O m−2 d−1. Higher AOB amount and N2O flux rate were observed in the Zizania latifolia cell, reflecting high potential of global warming. Roles of plants as ecosystem engineers are summarized with rhizosphere oxygen release and organic matter transportation to affect nitrogen transformation. The Phragmites australis cell contributed to keeping high T-N removal performance and lower N2O emission. The distribution of AOB also supported this result. Statistical analysis showed several environmental parameters affecting the strength of observed greenhouse gases emission, such as water temperature, water level, TOC, plant species and plant cover.