Preface to special issue on the Large‐Scale Biosphere‐Atmosphere Experiment in Amazonia (LBA)

This special issue reports on some of the research being uindertaken as part óf the various components ot LBA. In particular, it repots on research performed as part of the joint project WetAMC/TRMM. A series of papers describing the biogeochemical cycling of carbon, water, energy, aerosols, and trace gases resulting from the Euro- pean Studies on Trace Gases and Atmospheric Chemistry project, known as LBA-EUSTACH, is also reported in this issue. This issue also includes a series of papers related to various other aspects of LBA. Accordingly, this special issue, which includes a total of 55 papers, is divided into three parts: (1) LBA WetAMC/TRMM, (2) LBA- EUSTACH, and (3) general LBA. Silva Dias [2002] and Andreae et al. [2002] provide syntheses of the papers included in parts 1 and 2, respectively, reflect on what has been learned from these field campaigns, and reveal the need for future research. Avissar et al. [2002] provide a brief overview of the papers provided in part 3, highlighting some of the insights gained from these investigations and needs for future research.