What are stable isotopes in ecology?

Stable isotopes of nitrogen and carbon frequently are used to determine the mix of diet sources for consumers. Nitrogen isotopes also are useful in determining nutrient sources to aquatic ecosystems (e.g., marine derived nutrients in streams with anadromous fish species).

How is stable isotope analysis done?

Stable isotope ratios are measured using mass spectrometry, which separates the different isotopes of an element on the basis of their mass-to-charge ratio.

How are stable isotopes used in Environmental Science?

Stable Isotopes in Ecology and Environmental Science is an ideal resource for both ecologists who are new to isotopic analysis, and more experienced isotope ecologists interested in innovative techniques and pioneering new uses.

Who is the manager of the stable isotope laboratory?

Show all Robert Michener is the Laboratory Manager of the Boston University Stable Isotope Laboratory and has been running the internationally recognized facility for 18 years. His research interests include aquatic ecology, food web systems, and how stable isotopes can be applied to tracing pollutants, comparing pristine and impacted systems.

Why are stable isotopes important in fish tissues?

Stable isotopes of carbon in fish tissues may reflect a number of influencing factors in the aquatic environment, including flow velocities in streams, substrate type, energy sources (e.g., autotrophy vs. heterotrophy) and possibly temperature effects as well.

How are stable isotopes measured in a mass spectrometer?

Schematic diagram of a continuous-flow isotope-ratio mass spectrometer coupled to an elemental analyzer. Organic samples are homogenized and weighed into tin or silver cups. The samples are injected into the analyzer where organic compounds are converted to gaseous inorganic compounds such as N 2, Co 2, H 2 o, or So 2 via combustion or pyrolysis.

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