Identification of Ozone-Sensitive Vegetation in Central Argentina: Summary of Preliminary Findings

CHRIS BERGWEILER, MARIA LUISA PIGNATA, HEBE CARRERAS, EDUARDO WANNAZ AND JUDITH RODRIGUEZ

ALBERTA, CANADA

Workshop; US Air Pollution Workshop 2005; 2005

No historical or present programs exist specifically assessing ecosystem health in Argentina with respect to photochemical air  pollution although phytotoxic concentrations of near-ground ozone have been documented in recent years. Here we report our preliminary findings on field observations of ozone-like injury found in natural plant populations and agroecosystems in that country. Based on these results we hope to expand field surveys, follow through on screening and confirmation of bioinidicators, and establish a continuous monitoring network for tropospheric ozone.