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Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/A/S/2001/00435

Understanding the distribution and ecology of ancient polar forests and their influence on climate.

Grant Award

Principal Investigator:
Professor J Francis, University of Leeds, School of Earth and Environment
Co-Investigator:
Professor D Beerling, University of Sheffield, School of Biosciences
Science Area:
Earth
Overall Classification:
Earth
ENRIs:
Global Change
Science Topics:
Land - Atmosphere Interactions
Palaeobiology
Palaeoenvironments
Climate & Climate Change
Abstract:
The fossil record provides evidence for the enduring nature and high productivity of polar forests, yet their functional ecology, distribution and feedback on climate are all poorly understood. This interdisciplinary project addresses these crucial issues by using new discoveries relating leaf life span to plant carbon balance and by determining leaf life span from fossil growth rings. We will develop a computer model of conifer forest growth, driven by new global palaeoclimate simulations for 100 and 50 Ma to understand the environmental controls on their biogeography in the high latitudes and to simulate their impact on regional climate. Underpinning all predictions will be reconstructions of palaeoclimate and palaeovegetation maps based on analyses of extensive collections of fossil conifer woods from the Northern and Southern hemisphere for each interval.
Period of Award:
1 Jul 2002 - 31 Aug 2005
Value:
£30,586 Lead Split Award
Authorised funds only
NERC Reference:
NER/A/S/2001/00435
Grant Stage:
Completed
Scheme:
Standard Grants Pre FEC
Grant Status:
Closed
Programme:
Standard Grant

This grant award has a total value of £30,586  

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FDAB - Financial Details (Award breakdown by headings)

Total - T&STotal - Other CostsTotal - Indirect Costs
£4,632£15,144£10,810

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