Composition of the Saprotrophic Fungi in Calluna Heathland Soil and the Influence of Ammonium Nitrate Application

The composition of saprotrophic soil fungi in the mor layerof a Calluna-dominated, Danish heathland wasinvestigated after two years of fertilization with ammoniumnitrate (0, 35, 50 and 70 kg N ha^1- yr^-1) using asoil washing technique. The most frequently isolated generafrom the soil particles plated were Penicillium, Trichoderma, Mortierella and Mucor. Eightspecies of Penicillium were identified and Penicillium spinulosum was the most frequently isolated.The occurrence of dark, sterile fungi on the soil particleswas low. There were no measurable changes in the specificcomposition of the saprotrophic soil fungal groups due tothe nitrogen treatments, beside from an increasedoccurrence of Absidia californica. I conclude that adirect impact on the composition of the saprotrophic fungiin heathland soil is unlikely under enhanced nitrogen input.     

Identity and distribution of residues of energetic compounds at army live-fire training ranges

Environmental investigations have been conducted at 23 military firing ranges in the United States and Canada. The specific training facilities most frequently evaluated were hand grenade, antitank rocket, and artillery ranges. Energetic compounds (explosives and propellants) were determined and linked to the type of munition used and the major mechanisms of deposition.