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On Earth, carbon is continually cycling through terrestrial systems, inland waters, the ocean, and the atmosphere. Until
little over a decade ago, when calculating the terrestrial component of the global carbon budget, inputs were limited to the
ocean and the land. Because inland water bodies cover less than 1% of the Earth's surface, it was assumed that their
contribution was inconsequential. The fact is that half of the terrestrial carbon entering inland waters is destined for a fate
outside of the ocean's salty shores. [Source: Institute of Ecosystem Studies]
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