Stress protection of Amazon trees, induced by climate warming, may alter atmosphere chemistry

The Amazon rainforest is one of the largest carbon reservoirs on Earth. It is also the world's largest source of biogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These carbon-based gases are naturally released by vegetation. They protect trees against various sources of stress, e.g., by mitigating oxidative stress and deterring herbivores. Once in the atmosphere, VOCs react rapidly with other gases. This influences the formation of airborne particles and clouds, which contributes to shaping the regional climate and rainfall patterns.