UV Radiation and Terrestrial Ecosystems: Emerging Perspectives

Abstract

This chapter discusses the changing perspectives and highlights some open questions in the field of UV effects on terrestrial ecosystems. It is established that in addition to the potentially negative effects of UV-B on terrestrial biota, UV-B can also control ecosystem processes through its natural variation and changes due to human activity or climate change. The focus on negative impacts of UV radiation needs to be recast in the light of the multiple mechanistic insights that have been highlighted in recent years due to the broadened understanding of the role of UV-B as a regulator of plant function and ecosystem processes.