Graph showing the relationship between monoterpene emissions and drought stress in the Amazon rainforest.

Mirror-image monoterpene emissions from Amazon trees reveal drought stress during El Niño events | AI News Digest

Published: September 6, 2025, 7:07 p.m. Science Positive

Research reveals that mirror-image monoterpene emissions from Amazon trees can indicate drought stress during El Niño events. The study focuses on chiral monoterpenes, particularly alpha-pinene, and how their emissions vary with environmental stressors. By analyzing the ratios of these compounds, scientists can gauge the severity of drought conditions affecting the Amazon rainforest, which is crucial for understanding its role in global carbon sequestration. The findings highlight the potential of using chiral ratios as a new metric for assessing ecosystem health and stress levels in response to climate change.

Amazon RainforestMonoterpenesDrought StressEl NiñoClimate Change

Understanding Monoterpenes

Monoterpenes are volatile organic compounds produced by plants, playing a crucial role in plant defense and communication. They exist in chiral forms, which can be emitted differently based on environmental conditions. This study specifically examines alpha-pinene, a common monoterpene in tropical rainforests, and its enantiomers. By analyzing the ratios of these compounds, researchers can gain insights into the physiological state of the trees under stress.

Impact of El Niño on the Amazon

The El Niño phenomenon significantly affects weather patterns, leading to increased temperatures and reduced rainfall in the Amazon region. This study highlights how such climatic changes can exacerbate drought conditions, impacting the rainforest's ability to sequester carbon. The findings suggest that monitoring monoterpene emissions could provide early warnings of ecological stress during these events. Understanding these dynamics is vital for predicting the future health of the Amazon rainforest amid climate change.

Chiral Ratios as Ecosystem Stress Indicators

The research proposes that the chiral ratio of alpha-pinene can serve as a reliable metric for assessing ecosystem stress. This approach offers a more nuanced understanding of how trees respond to abiotic stressors like drought and heat. By establishing a baseline for low-stress conditions, scientists can better interpret variations in monoterpene emissions during extreme weather events. This innovative method could enhance ecological monitoring and inform conservation strategies in vulnerable rainforest ecosystems.