Carbon monoxide (CO) plays a major role in atmospheric chemistry. Through a series of reactions, CO can contribute to the formation of tropospheric ozone, which poses a serious health concern on a regional scale. While anthropogenic sources of CO are reasonably well understood, relatively little is known about natural CO sources and sinks. Wetlands have been discounted as CO sources on the basis of sediment CO concentrations. However, plant leaves and stems produce significant amounts of CO when illuminated by the sun. Because of their large amounts of plant biomass, wetlands are likely strong net CO sources. Our work will determine the extent and controls of CO emission from wetlands, and contrast the behavior of CO with that of methane, another important atmospheric trace gas for which wetlands are a primary global source. Our work will also examine links between CO production and increased ultraviolet (UV) irradiation due to stratospheric ozone depletion
