Loading…
Loading…
GCSE Biology · key term
Partly decayed plant material that builds up slowly in waterlogged, low-oxygen conditions.
Used by AQA
Specification 4.7.3.3 · Paper 2
Revise: Land UseA peat bog is a waterlogged habitat. Dead plants decay only slowly in its wet, low-oxygen conditions, so partly decayed plant material builds up as peat over a very long time. Carbon from those plants remains stored in the peat instead of quickly returning to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.
For peat bog destruction, distinguish the two consequences: loss of habitat reduces biodiversity, while decay or burning of peat releases carbon dioxide.
When evaluating peat compost, consider both its value for growing plants and the benefits of conserving peatlands.
Create a free account to read GCSE Biology revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.