Glycolysis

The first step in respiration which involves the splitting of a six-carbon glucose molecule in several stages, into two three-carbon molecules of pyruvic acid. This product is then converted to ethanol and CO2 under anaerobic conditions, which can occur in waterlogged or compacted soils, or is converted to acetyl-CoA for use in the citric acid cycle, under aerobic conditions.

There is a net production of two energy ATP compounds resulting from glycolysis, whilst another 36 ATP compounds are converted from a six-carbon molecule as a result of aerobic respiration. With a lot less energy being produced from carbohydrate breakdown in anaerobic conditions, this results in weakened growth when compared with aerobic respiration.

Anaerobic respiration is fermentation, with ethanol being toxic within a soil as levels increase, leaves turn yellow, there is an increase in disease potential as well as increased divoting due to weakened rooting.

Turfgrass area which potentially retain water for long periods of time, maybe greater than 48-72 hours, should be prioritised for additional aeration, decompaction or even enhanced drainage works, if a healthy and relatively hard-wearing sward is to be maintained.