Tropical Glacierized Volcanoes as Sentinels of Global Change: Modeling Carbon Transformation in Andean Páramo Stream Networks

Páramo ecosystems are high-elevation tropical peatlands with among the highest carbon stores on Earth. Historically, they have functioned as carbon sinks, making them invaluable assets in mitigating the global greenhouse effect. However, páramo stream networks are increasingly receiving meltwater from retreating glaciers, giving rise to distinct hydro-biogeochemical shifts that influence carbon cycling. Field research I conducted in 2025 shows heterogeneity among glacier-fed streams; some reaches remain carbon sinks, while others have become atmospheric carbon sources. My findings demonstrate that despite being only meters apart, these stream reaches are processing carbon differently, yet the causes of this variability remain poorly understood. In this model, my findings link landscape elements such as glaciers, wetlands, and springs, to variable outcomes in stream chemistry.