Changes in chemical properties in two Slovak peatlands after 10 years monitoring period

Presented contribution brings a comparison of changes in basic chemicals parameters with emphasis on organic carbon (OC) on two different Slovak peatlands, Belianske lúky fen – Histosol (Alcalic) and Rudné bog – Histosol (Gleyic) and their near surroundings. OC concentration in peat profile on Rudné bog is higher as on Belianske lúky fen. On both peatlands fresh plant residues, such as cellulose and lignin dominate in peat organic matter and the degree of aromaticity of peat organic matter on both monitored peatlands is very low. Great differences also in pH and nitrogen content were found. Rudné bog is extremely acid with low content of nitrogen, and pH values; Belianske lúky fen is located in the alkaline region, and nitrogen content compared to Rudné bog is much higher. On both peatlands very low concentration of available phosphorus was determined. On Belianske lúky fen above-limit arsenic content, which comes from carbonate rocks of Belianske Tatras, was detected. Because the above-limit concentration of Cd and Pb only in the upper part of Rudné bog was found we assume that this may be anthropogenic contamination. During the 10 years monitoring period OC concentration on both peatlands increased but a significant increase in OC mainly on Belianske lúky fen was found due to renewal management. The changes in the another chemical parameters on peatlands were not so prominent.