Phenolic and mineral content of leaves influences decomposition in European forest ecosystems |
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Authors: | Volker Nicolai |
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Institution: | (1) Fachbereich Biologie/Zoologie, Philipps-University, P.O. Box 1929, D-3550 Marburg, Federal Republik of Germany |
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Abstract: | Summary Factors influencing decomposition in European forests growing on different soils were studied in stands dominated by the European
beechFagus sylvatica L. Phenolic contents of freshly fallen leaves ofF. sylvatica growing on nutrient-poor soils (acid sandy soil) were higher than those of similar leaves on nutrient-rich soils (calcareous
mull soil). Analysis of fallen leaves of different ages showed rapid decay of phenolics during the first winter on the ground.
After 1 year the phenolic content of leaves ofF. sylvatica growing on nutrient-poor soils was still twice as high as in similar leaves on nutrient-rich soils. Field and laboratory
experiments showed that a major decomposer (Oniscus asellus, Isopoda) preferred leaves from trees on nutrient-rich soils. Mineral contents of leaves ofF. sylvatica growing on different soils differed: on rich soils leaves had higher contents of Ca, Mg, Na, and K. These elements are important
nutrients for decomposers. The distribution of major decomposers reflects the mineral content of their diet, which in turn
reflects soil type. Different rates of leaf turnover and nutrient turnover in different forest ecosystems (even when the same
tree species is dominant) are due to the decomposing system, which is influenced by the phenolic and mineral contents of the
leaves. |
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Keywords: | Forest Decomposition Phenolic Mineral content |
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