• Simulation results imply that net primary production (NPP) is limited by cloud interception of solar radiation over the humid northwestern portion of the region, with peak annual rates for NPP of nearly 1.4 kg C m^-2 yr^-1 localized in the seasonally dry eastern Amazon in areas that we assume are primarily deep-rooted evergreen forest cover.
• Regional effects of Amazon forest conversion to pasture on NPP and soil carbon content are indicated in the model results, especially in seasonally dry areas.
• Comparison of model flux predictions along selected eco-climatic transects reveal moisture, soil, and land use controls on gradients of ecosystem production and soil trace gas emissions (CO₂, N₂O, and NO).

Net primary production estimated at 8-km cell resolution by the NASA-CASA model for Brazil, circa 1990.

Net Primary Production