A closeup study of early beech litter decomposition: potential drivers and microbial interactions on a changing substrate |
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Authors: | Christian Brandstätter Katharina Keiblinger Wolfgang Wanek Sophie Zechmeister-Boltenstern |
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Institution: | 1. BFW – Federal Research and Training Centre for Forests, Natural Hazards and Landscape, Seckendorff-Gudent Weg 8, 1131, Vienna, Austria 4. Institute for Water Quality, Resources and Waste Management, Vienna University of Technology, Karlsplatz 13/226, 1040, Vienna, Austria 2. Institute of Soil Research, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Peter-Jordan-Stra?e 82, 1190, Vienna, Austria 3. CHECO – Institute of Chemical Ecology and Ecosystem Research, University of Vienna, Althanstra?e 14, 1090, Vienna, Austria
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Abstract: | Aims Litter decomposition and subsequent nutrient release play a major role in forest carbon and nutrient cycling. To elucidate how soluble or bulk nutrient ratios affect the decomposition process of beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) litter, we conducted a microcosm experiment over an 8 week period. Specifically, we investigated leaf-litter from four Austrian forested sites, which varied in elemental composition (C:N:P ratio). Our aim was to gain a mechanistic understanding of early decomposition processes and to determine microbial community changes. Methods We measured initial litter chemistry, microbial activity in terms of respiration (CO2), litter mass loss, microbial biomass C and N (Cmic and Nmic), non purgeable organic carbon (NPOC), total dissolved nitrogen (TDN), NH4 +, NO3 - and microbial community composition (phospholipid fatty acids – PLFAs). Results At the beginning of the experiment microbial biomass increased and pools of inorganic nitrogen (N) decreased, followed by an increase in fungal PLFAs. Sites higher in NPOC:TDN (C:N of non purgeable organic C and total dissolved N), K and Mn showed higher respiration. Conclusions The C:N ratio of the dissolved pool, rather than the quantity of N, was the major driver of decomposition rates. We saw dynamic changes in the microbial community from the beginning through the termination of the experiment. |
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