Methane Concentration and Emission in Dominant Landscapes of Typical Tundra of Western Yamal

Abstract

Methane concentration in dominant landscapes of typical tundra of Western Yamal has been measured. The highest methane content in the active layer was measured in tundra bogs, wet gully bottoms, and polygonal tundra. Within these landscapes, methane concentration reaches 5000 ppm, while in other landscapes it does not exceed 300 ppm. Thus, only bogs, polygonal tundra, and gully bottoms, which occupy approximately 30–40% of the area, are the main sources of methane emission in the typical tundra zone. Measurements of methane emission to the atmosphere have been performed. During the summer maximum of emission, daily methane flux in bogs reaches 14.4 mg/m² (20.3 ml/m²).