Comparative analyses were conducted on the nutrient element content and returning amount of main fractional compositions of litter in Korean pine (KP), Mongolian Scots pine(MSP) and Dahurian larch (DL) plantations in ...Comparative analyses were conducted on the nutrient element content and returning amount of main fractional compositions of litter in Korean pine (KP), Mongolian Scots pine(MSP) and Dahurian larch (DL) plantations in Laoshan Plantation Experiment Station of Maoershan Experiment Forest Farm of Northeast Forestry University. The results are as follows: (1) The nutrient element content and returning amount in litter varies among different fractional compositions and tree species, the total returning amount of all nutrient elements and the returning amount of K, Ca, Mg, N and P are DL>MSP>KP, the returning amount of Cu is DL>KP>MSP, the returning amount of Fe and Mn are MSP>DL>KP, (2) To KP and DL plantations, the main nutrient element returned is dead needles; dead branches, bark scales and dead cones account for a little proportion; whereas to MSP plantation, besides dead needles,dead branches and bark scales also play an important role in the return of nutrient elements; (3)A little deal of dead leaves can provided a great deal of returning amount of nutrient elements.展开更多
Investigations were made in korean pine, mongolian scots pine and dahurian larch plantations in Laoshan Plantation Experiment Station of Maoershan Experiment Forest Farm of Northeast Forestry University. Data are tabu...Investigations were made in korean pine, mongolian scots pine and dahurian larch plantations in Laoshan Plantation Experiment Station of Maoershan Experiment Forest Farm of Northeast Forestry University. Data are tabulated on the amount and seasonal and annual nuctuations of fractional composition of the litter (conifer needles, branches, cones, bark scales, broad leaves) in the three plantations. The accounts of conifer needle branch and bark scale litter are as follows: korean pine: 71- 16%, 6. 23% and 7. 32%; mongolian scots pine: 43. 65%, 18. 52 % and 32. 12%; dahurian larch:90. 30%, 7. 83% and 1. 85%. There are certain broadleaf litter in dahurian larch and mongolian scots pine plantations (account for 7. 61% and 8. 92%respectively). The litter wither and fall concent ratively in autumn in dahurian larch plantation and scattered all year long in korean pine and mongolian scots pine plantations. Along with the increase of stand age, the absolute amount of litter tend to increase, the relative amount of main fractional compositions (conifer needle, branch and bark scale) in korean pine and mongolian Scots pine plantations maintain stead, whereas in dahurian larch plantation, the relative amount of conifer needle is decreased gradually and the relative amount of other fractional compositions are increased gradually.展开更多
Based on the introduction of concept of forest litter, changes in the amount of forest litter with climate zone, elevation, forest type and age of stand were analyzed, and then the decomposition of forest litter was d...Based on the introduction of concept of forest litter, changes in the amount of forest litter with climate zone, elevation, forest type and age of stand were analyzed, and then the decomposition of forest litter was discussed.展开更多
Cover cropping is a diversifying agricultural practice that can improve soil structure and function by altering the underground litter diversity and soil microbial communities.Here,we tested how a wheat cover crop alt...Cover cropping is a diversifying agricultural practice that can improve soil structure and function by altering the underground litter diversity and soil microbial communities.Here,we tested how a wheat cover crop alters the decomposition of cucumber root litter.A three-year greenhouse litterbag decomposition experiment showed that a wheat cover crop accelerates the decomposition of cucumber root litter.A microcosm litterbag experiment further showed that wheat litter and the soil microbial community could improve cucumber root litter decomposition.Moreover,the wheat cover crop altered the abundances and diversities of soil bacterial and fungal communities,and enriched several putative keystone operational taxonomic units(OTUs),such as Bacillus sp.OTU1837 and Mortierella sp.OTU1236,that were positively related to the mass loss of cucumber root litter.The representative bacterial and fungal strains B186 and M3 were isolated and cultured.In vitro decomposition tests demonstrated that both B186 and M3 had cucumber root litter decomposition activity and a stronger effect was found when they were co-incubated.Overall,a wheat cover crop accelerated cucumber root litter decomposition by altering the soil microbial communities,particularly by stimulating certain putative keystone taxa,which provides a theoretical basis for using cover crops to promote sustainable agricultural development.展开更多
Soil organic carbon(SOC)from different sources and with distinct chemical properties exhibit variations in their accumulation mechanisms.Exploring the effects of different litter treatments on SOC storage is of great ...Soil organic carbon(SOC)from different sources and with distinct chemical properties exhibit variations in their accumulation mechanisms.Exploring the effects of different litter treatments on SOC storage is of great significance for understanding the formation and accumulation mechanisms of the SOC pool.The feedback mechanisms of new and old SOC in response to tree species and litter treatments were quantitatively analyzed by the C3 plant/C4 soil replacement method.The litter treatments included no litter,aboveground litter,belowground forest litter,and aboveground+belowground litter,totaling four treatments.The results showed that in the first year,cork oak(Quercusvariabilis)exhibited the highest net SOC content increment and net new SOC increment,but the values declined rapidly from the second year onward.The net increment in SOC content was positive at all sample sites,while the priming effect was not significant at any site.Litter treatments had a significant impact on both SOC content and net SOC increment.Compared with aboveground litter,belowground litter was more effective in increasing SOC Content and net SOC increment.展开更多
Climate warming has intensified the global hydrological cycle,amplifying the differences in precipitation and soil moisture between arid and humid areas.Such a change under regional drought may alter nitrogen(N)and ph...Climate warming has intensified the global hydrological cycle,amplifying the differences in precipitation and soil moisture between arid and humid areas.Such a change under regional drought may alter nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)releases during litter decomposition in terrestrial ecosystems,but how these biogeochemical processes respond to drought differently between arid and humid areas remains unclear.Here,we compiled 259 and 138 paired observations(with and without drought conditions)to assess the global variations in the drought effects on N and P releases during litter decomposition between arid(aridity index<0.5)and humid(aridity index>0.5)areas.Litter N release increased under drought in both arid(0.35%)and humid(3.62%)areas,and P release decreased by 7.32%in arid areas but increased by 2.22%in humid areas under drought.These changes in N and P releases from decomposing litter were positively correlated with drought duration in arid areas,dependent on microclimate,edaphic factors,and litter quality.Our findings highlight the contrasting effects of drought on litter N and P releases between arid and humid ecosystems,and this differential influence will greatly improve our capability to evaluate and forecast nutrient cycling during litter decomposition under different precipitation patterns.展开更多
The study determined the carbon stocks and litter nutrient concentration in tropical forests along the ecological gradient in Kenya.This could help understand the potential of mitigating climate change using tropical ...The study determined the carbon stocks and litter nutrient concentration in tropical forests along the ecological gradient in Kenya.This could help understand the potential of mitigating climate change using tropical forest ecosystems in different ecological zones,which are being affected by climate change to a level that they are becoming carbon sources instead of sinks.Stratified sampling technique was used to categorize tropical forests into rain,moist deciduous and dry zone forests depending on the average annual rainfall received.Simple random sampling technique was used to select three tropical forests in each category.Modified consistent sampling technique was used to develop 10 main 20 m×100 m plots in each forest,with 202 m×50 m sub-plots in each plot.Systematic random sampling technique was used in selecting 10 sub-plots from each main plot for inventory study.Non-destructive approach based on allometric equations using trees’diameter at breast height(DBH),total height and species’wood specific gravity were used in estimating tree carbon stock in each forest.Soil organic carbon(SOC)and litter nutrient concentration(total phosphorus and nitrogen)were determined in each forest based on standard laboratory procedures.The results indicated that,whilst trees in rain forests recorded a significantly higher(p<0.001)DBH(20.36 cm)and total tree height(12.1 m),trees in dry zone forests recorded a significantly higher(p<0.001)specific gravity(0.67 kg m^(−3)).Dry zone tropical forests stored a significantly lower amount of total tree carbon of 73 Mg ha^(−1),compared to tropical rain forests(439.5 Mg ha^(−1))and moist deciduous tropical forests(449 Mg ha^(−1)).The SOC content was significantly higher in tropical rainforests(3.9%),compared to soils from moist deciduous(2.9%)and dry zone forests(1.8%).While litter from tropical rain forests recorded a significantly higher amount of total nitrogen(3.4%),litter from dry zone forests recorded a significantly higher concentration of total phosphorus(0.27%).In conclusion,ecological gradient that is dictated by the prevailing temperatures and precipitation affects the tropical forests carbon stock potential and litter nutrient concentration.This implies that,the changing climate is having a serious implication on the ecosystem services such as carbon stock and nutrients cycling in tropical forests.展开更多
Water resources are vital for all living beings and should be managed properly to ensure the safety and well-being of humankind.Surface water bodies are constantly faced with serious contamination risks generated prim...Water resources are vital for all living beings and should be managed properly to ensure the safety and well-being of humankind.Surface water bodies are constantly faced with serious contamination risks generated primarily by human activities and urbanization.The problem of waste littering and dumping in developing countries like Nigeria is increasingly affecting environmental resources such as air and water.Several studies have revealed alarming levels of heavy metals that exceed the World Health Organization(WHO)standards.Plastic waste represents a substantial portion of litter,affecting water quality.Pollution results in the depletion of aquatic ecosystems and an increase in water-related diseases.This review aims to assess the impact of waste littering and dumping on surface water quality in Nigeria.In this review,the findings of various studies on surface water bodies in Nigeria,particularly those under the influence of urbanization and waste disposal,were compiled.This review compared numerous physical and chemical parameters like pH,dissolved oxygen,and heavy metals,and microbiological properties such as total coliforms.The water quality index(WQI)was also computed in these studies to ascertain the suitability of the water samples for human consumption.Review results showed that numerous water bodies in Nigeria have significantly diverse water quality levels,with some samples meeting or exceeding the WHO guidelines for microbiological,chemical,and physical characteristics.Notably,levels of heavy metals,turbidity,and pH frequently exceeded permissible limits,pointing to contamination from agricultural and industrial sources.The WQI results for multiple locations revealed that the majority of surface water sources were classified as“bad”to“very bad”,meaning they were unfit for human consumption.The results emphasized the critical need for immediate action to prevent further harm and deterioration of surface water bodies in Nigeria.Recommendations include strengthening waste management policies,promoting recycling initiatives,fostering collaborations among stakeholders,developing littering penalties and enforcing fines to curb the challenge,and raising educational awareness from the primary level.This review emphasizes the need for proactive measures to protect the environment and surface water quality in Nigeria.展开更多
Photodegradation is considered as a universal contributing factor to litter decomposition and carbon(C)cycling within the Earth’s biomes.Identifying how solar radiation modifies the molecular structure of litter is e...Photodegradation is considered as a universal contributing factor to litter decomposition and carbon(C)cycling within the Earth’s biomes.Identifying how solar radiation modifies the molecular structure of litter is essen-tial to understand the mechanism controlling its decom-position and reaction to shifts in climatic conditions and land-use.In this study,we performed a spectral-attenuation experiment following litter decomposition in an understory and gap of a temperate deciduous forest.We found that short-wavelength visible light,especially blue light,was the main factor driving variation in litter molecular struc-ture of Fagus crenata Blume,Quercus crispula Blume,Acer carpinifolium Siebold&Zuccarini and Betula platyphylla Sukaczev,explaining respectively 56.5%,19.4%,66.3%,and 16.7%of variation in its chemical composition.However,the variation also depended on canopy openness:Only in the forest gap was lignin aromatic C negatively associated with C-oxygen(C–O)bonding in polysaccharides receiv-ing treatments containing blue light of the full spectrum of solar radiation.Regardless of species,the decomposition index of litter that explained changes in mass and lignin loss was driven by the relative content of C–O stretching in poly-saccharides and lignin aromatic C.The results suggest that the availability of readily degradable polysaccharides pro-duced by the reduction in lignin aromatic C most plausibly explains the rate of litter photodegradation.Photo-products of photodegradation might augment the C pool destabilized by the input of readily degradable organic compounds(i.e.,polysaccharides).展开更多
A study was conducted to identify the differences in the decompositions of leaf litter, lignin and carbohydrate between coniferous forest and broadleaf forest at 20℃ and 30℃ in Huangshan Mountain, Anhui Province, Ch...A study was conducted to identify the differences in the decompositions of leaf litter, lignin and carbohydrate between coniferous forest and broadleaf forest at 20℃ and 30℃ in Huangshan Mountain, Anhui Province, China. Results showed that at 20℃ mass loss of leaf litter driven by microbial decomposers was higher in broadleaf forest than that in coniferous forest, whereas the difference in mass loss of leaf litter was not significant at 30℃. The temperature increase did not affect the mass loss of leaf litter for coniferous forest treatment, but significantly reduced the decomposition rate for broadleaf forest treatment. The functional decomposers of microorganism in broadleaf forest produced a higher lignin decomposition rate at 20℃, compared to that in coniferous forest, but the difference in lignin decomposition was not found between two forest types at 30℃. Improved temperature increased the lignin decomposition for both broadleaf and coniferous forest. Additionally, the functional group of microorganism from broadleaf forest showed marginally higher carbohydrate loss than that from coniferous forest at both temperatures. Temperature increase reduced the carbohydrate decomposition for broadleaf forest, while only a little reduce was found for coniferous forest. Remarkable differences occurred in responses between most enzymes （Phenoloxidase, peroxidase, !5-glucosidase and endocellulase） and decomposition rate of leaf litter to forest type and temperature, although there exist strong relationships between measured enzyme activities and decomposition rate in most cases. The reason is that more than one enzyme contribute to the mass loss of leaf litter and organic chemical components. In conclusion, at a community scale the coniferous and broadleaf forests differed in their temperature-decomposition relationships.展开更多
Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.), a fast-growing, ever-green conifer tree with high yield and excellent quality, is the most important tree species of timber plantations in subtropical China. We inv...Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.), a fast-growing, ever-green conifer tree with high yield and excellent quality, is the most important tree species of timber plantations in subtropical China. We investigated the characteristics of biomass, litterfall and nutrient fluxes in the 8, 14 and 24 year-old stands, representing the young, middle-aged and mature stands. The results showed that Chinese fir plantations in central Fujian province had high productivity, and the proportion of stem mass in total biomass was between 50%-70%. Chinese fir was low nutrient-return tree species with litterfall. Nutrient withdrawal from senescing needles was a strong age-dependence for nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in Chinese fir. With a management system of such short-rotation and continuously pure-crop planting, harvesting timber can lead to great nutrient loss, which may be one of the causes for site degradation.展开更多
Leaf litter decomposition of liaotong oak (Quercus liaotungensis Koize) under temperate, subtropical and tropical forests was examined using a litter bag technique. Decomposition rates and release dynamics of nutrient...Leaf litter decomposition of liaotong oak (Quercus liaotungensis Koize) under temperate, subtropical and tropical forests was examined using a litter bag technique. Decomposition rates and release dynamics of nutrients Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn and P were observed separately at all three sites for I to 2 a periods. The leaf litter mass loss of liaotong oak was simulated with Olson's exponential model. Significant differences of leaf litter mass loss were found in forests of all three climate zones. Litter decomposition was accelerated with the increase of both annual mean precipitation and temperature. Our results agreed with other studies demonstrating that litter decomposition processes were greatly affected not only by soil organisms (including soil fauna and microorganisms), but also by chemical factors. These chemical factors were important for controlling the release of nutrients, especially elements of Fe and Mn. We also found that Fe and Mn content increased in semi-decayed leaf litter as litter mass decreased. This result was presumably due to chelating process which accumulated soil Fe and Mn ions into the decomposing litter. In conclusion, our study allowed us to determine the classification of the characteristics of different nutrient release patterns.展开更多
The role of forest litter as an acid-base buffering system was assessed by litter from plantation and natural forests in South China. Samples were either extracted with acid solutions or titrated with acid or base sol...The role of forest litter as an acid-base buffering system was assessed by litter from plantation and natural forests in South China. Samples were either extracted with acid solutions or titrated with acid or base solutions. Litter was found to be a strong acid-base buffering system. Two legume species, Acacia mangium Willd and A. auriculaiformis A. Cunn, had very high litter pH values of around 6, which was 2 pH units higher than that of the soil where they grew. Litter of all other plantation species had litter pH of around 4, similar to that of the soil. Both legume species have high potential to neutralize soil acidity and the litter layer could act to shield soil against acid rain. The current stand of two legume species was estimated to be able to raise rain acidity by 0.1 to 0.4 pH units. Inorganic ions did not fully explain the pH pattern of different litter extracts, but high sodium and low nitrate partly accounted for the high pH of the two legume species. Some natural forest species had extremely low pH. As a whole, the litter of the natural climax forest was the driving force of soil acidification. Although plant residues are strong acid-base buffering system and able to adjust acidity of environment, only a few species can be expected to make soil more acid or alkaline through this mechanism since most species have litter pH values similar to those of soil where they grow.展开更多
The effects of nitrogen （N） availability and tree species on the dynamics of carbon and nitrogen at early stage of decomposition of forest litter were studied in a 13-week laboratory incubation experiment. Fresh lit...The effects of nitrogen （N） availability and tree species on the dynamics of carbon and nitrogen at early stage of decomposition of forest litter were studied in a 13-week laboratory incubation experiment. Fresh litter samples including needle litter （Pinus koraiensis） and two types of broadleaf litters （Quercus mongolica and Tilia amurensis） were collected from a broadleaf-korean pine mixed forest in the northern slope of Changbai Mountain （China）. Different doses of N （equal to 0, 30 and 50 kg.ha^-1yr^-1, respectively, as NH4NO3） were added to litter during the experiment period. The litter decomposition rate expressed as mass loss and respiration rate increased significantly with increasing N availability. The mass loss and cumulative CO2-C emission were higher in leaf litter compared to that in needle litter. The dis- solved organic Carbon （DOC） concentrations in litter leachate varied widely between the species, but were not greatly affected by N treatments. Regardless of the N addition rate, both N treatments and species had no significant effect on dissolved organic N （DON） concentrations in litter leachate. About 52-78% of added N was retained in the litter. The percentage of N retention was positively correlated （R^2=0.9 1, p〈0.05） with the litter mass loss. This suggested that a forest floor with easily decomposed litter might have higher potential N sink strength than that with more slowly decomposed litter.展开更多
Larch (Larix olgensis), Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica), Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) and White birch (Betula platyphylla) are the major planting species in northeast China. The samples of forest litters were ...Larch (Larix olgensis), Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica), Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) and White birch (Betula platyphylla) are the major planting species in northeast China. The samples of forest litters were collected from the stands of the above 4 species in Laoyeling and Jianlagou experiment stations of Maorshan Exp. Forest Farm (45?2-45?0N, 127?0-127?8E), Northeast Forestry University, in early October 2002. Quantitative analysis and qualitative analysis were carried out on the organic acids existing in freshly fallen litters (L layer) and hemi-decomposed litters (F layer) of the four forest species by using Gas Chromatogram system. A wide variety of organic acids were identified, including oxalic, malonic, fumaric, succinic, maleic, malic, citric, C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, C18:2, C18:3 and C20:0 acids. In respect of L litters of all samples, the oxalic acid content (over 30 mg/g) was the highest of the seven low-molecular-weight organic acids identified, while the content of oleic or linoleic (above 40 mg/g) was found to be highest among the six high aliphatic acids identified. As to F litters, oxalic acid content was also the highest, followed by linoleic and oleic. For the same tree species or the same forest, the kinds and contents of organic acids in L litters were more abundant than that in F litters.展开更多
A litter bag study of needle (Abies veitchii Lindl. and A. mariesi Mast.) and leaf litter (Betula ermanii Cham. and B. corylifolia Regal. et Maxim.) conducted in a coniferous forest of Mt. Ontake, Japan showed the sim...A litter bag study of needle (Abies veitchii Lindl. and A. mariesi Mast.) and leaf litter (Betula ermanii Cham. and B. corylifolia Regal. et Maxim.) conducted in a coniferous forest of Mt. Ontake, Japan showed the similar qualities of two type litters in later stages (after the 30th month). Although the difference in remaining mass between the two litters was larger in later stage of decomposition and initial concentration of nutrients was different. The concentrations of carbon (C) fraction and nutrients between the two types of litter tended to similar in the later stages. The similar concentration trend of nutrients was due to different mechanisms. Nitrogen (N) was due to immobilization of fungi and binding with lignin. K and Mg were leaching elements. They were very easily affected in leaching process. In the later stage, they reached a similar concentration because of a balance with the soil concentration. Ca is a construction element, so its behavior has closely related to that of C fractions. Moreover, C fractions were lignified or humuified and remained similar in later stage, Ca was also became similar in concentration in the later stage.展开更多
[ Objective] To analyze the FUT1 gene polymorphism of Hebao pigs and its relationship with litter size and provide reference for conservation, breeding, development and utilization of Hebao pigs. [Method] The DNA was ...[ Objective] To analyze the FUT1 gene polymorphism of Hebao pigs and its relationship with litter size and provide reference for conservation, breeding, development and utilization of Hebao pigs. [Method] The DNA was extracted from Hebao pigs＇ ears, and the polymorphism of FUT1 gene was detected by PCR-RFLP. Then the relationship between genotype and litter size was analyzed. [Result] The FUT1 gene had three kinds of genotypes, GG, AG and AA, as indicated by digestion with Hin6 I. The genotype frequency of AA was 0.115 9, and the allele frequency of A was 0.275 4. The average litter size from the 1 = parity to the 5th parity was higher in the individuals with the genotype AA than in those with the genotype AG or GG. And this difference was significant in average litter size of the 3th parity and the 4th parity （ P 〈 0.05）. [ Conclusion ] The FUT-1 gene is polymorphic in Hebao pigs, and the allele frequency is similar to that of foreign Duroc pigs but greatly different from that of other breeds such as Landrace, Large white, and Landrace x Large white pigs. The genotype AA is a prevalent genotype for litter trait.展开更多
The presence of a thatch layer in established pastures could reduce the contact between broiler litter and soil, thus increasing the potential for surface runoff contamination with litter P. We conducted a laboratory ...The presence of a thatch layer in established pastures could reduce the contact between broiler litter and soil, thus increasing the potential for surface runoff contamination with litter P. We conducted a laboratory study to evaluate the effect of a thatch layer on the dynamics of water-soluble P in undisturbed cores taken from a pasture. Cores with and without a thatch layer received a surface application of broiler litter (5 thm-2) and were incubated at 25 oC for 56 d. The result showed that on the soil surface the contents of water soluble-P (39 kghm-2) of the cores with the thatch layer was higher than that (20 kghm-2) of the cores without the thatch layer. Therefore on well-established pastures fertilized with broiler litter, the presence of a thatch layer might lead to high concentrations of water-soluble P on the soil surface.展开更多
Litter production, components and dynamics were investigated and forest floor litter was quantified throughout awhole year in three subalpine forests, dominated by tree species of spruce (SF), fir (FF) and birch (BF),...Litter production, components and dynamics were investigated and forest floor litter was quantified throughout awhole year in three subalpine forests, dominated by tree species of spruce (SF), fir (FF) and birch (BF), in WesternSichuan, China, in order to understand the key factors that influenced litter production and dynamics. Litterfall in thethree forests consisted mainly of leaves, woody litter, reproductive organs and moss. Contribution of leaf litter to thetotal litterfall was significantly (P < 0.05) greater than that of woody litter, reproductive organs or moss. Regardlessof the stands, litterfall exhibited a marked monthly variation with the maximum litterfall peaks occurring in October,with smaller peaks occurring in February for SF and FF, and May for BF. The analysis indicated that tree species,stand density, leaf area index (LAI), stand basal area and stand age were the key factors determining litter production.Meanwhile tree species and phenology controlled the litter dynamics, with wind and snow modifying the litter componentsand dynamics.展开更多
Bamboos are one of the fast-growing and multiple use species in the world, and thus bamboo forests/plantations play an important role in C sequestration at regional and global levels. We studied aboveground litterfall...Bamboos are one of the fast-growing and multiple use species in the world, and thus bamboo forests/plantations play an important role in C sequestration at regional and global levels. We studied aboveground litterfall, litter decomposition and nutrient dynamics for two years in two subtropical bamboo ecosystems in Southwest China so as to test the hypothesis that litter quality determine the rate and nutrient dynamics during decomposition of different litter fractions. Mean annual total aboveground litter production ranged from 494 to 434 g m-2 in two bamboo stands （P stand, dominated by Pleioblastus amarus and H stand, hybrid bamboo dominated by Bambusa pervariabilis x Dendrocalamopsis daii）. Bulk （-80%） of litter production was contributed by leaf litter in two stands followed by twigs and sheathes. Different litter fractions represented considerable variations in the rates of mass loss and nutrient release. Variation of the mass remaining after 2 years of decomposition was significantly explained by initial C/N ratio and initial P concentration. Initial concentrations of N, P, Ca, and Mg explained 57.9%, 95.0%, 99.8% and 98.1%, respectively, of the variations of these elements mass remaining after 2 years of decomposition. The patterns of nutrient dynamics and the final amount remaining were mainly determined by their initial litter substrate quality in tl^ese two subtropical bamboo plantations.展开更多
文摘Comparative analyses were conducted on the nutrient element content and returning amount of main fractional compositions of litter in Korean pine (KP), Mongolian Scots pine(MSP) and Dahurian larch (DL) plantations in Laoshan Plantation Experiment Station of Maoershan Experiment Forest Farm of Northeast Forestry University. The results are as follows: (1) The nutrient element content and returning amount in litter varies among different fractional compositions and tree species, the total returning amount of all nutrient elements and the returning amount of K, Ca, Mg, N and P are DL>MSP>KP, the returning amount of Cu is DL>KP>MSP, the returning amount of Fe and Mn are MSP>DL>KP, (2) To KP and DL plantations, the main nutrient element returned is dead needles; dead branches, bark scales and dead cones account for a little proportion; whereas to MSP plantation, besides dead needles,dead branches and bark scales also play an important role in the return of nutrient elements; (3)A little deal of dead leaves can provided a great deal of returning amount of nutrient elements.
文摘Investigations were made in korean pine, mongolian scots pine and dahurian larch plantations in Laoshan Plantation Experiment Station of Maoershan Experiment Forest Farm of Northeast Forestry University. Data are tabulated on the amount and seasonal and annual nuctuations of fractional composition of the litter (conifer needles, branches, cones, bark scales, broad leaves) in the three plantations. The accounts of conifer needle branch and bark scale litter are as follows: korean pine: 71- 16%, 6. 23% and 7. 32%; mongolian scots pine: 43. 65%, 18. 52 % and 32. 12%; dahurian larch:90. 30%, 7. 83% and 1. 85%. There are certain broadleaf litter in dahurian larch and mongolian scots pine plantations (account for 7. 61% and 8. 92%respectively). The litter wither and fall concent ratively in autumn in dahurian larch plantation and scattered all year long in korean pine and mongolian scots pine plantations. Along with the increase of stand age, the absolute amount of litter tend to increase, the relative amount of main fractional compositions (conifer needle, branch and bark scale) in korean pine and mongolian Scots pine plantations maintain stead, whereas in dahurian larch plantation, the relative amount of conifer needle is decreased gradually and the relative amount of other fractional compositions are increased gradually.
基金Supported by the National Key Technology R&D Program(2013BAC04B01)Research and Demonstration of Restoration Technology of Typical Degraded Ecosystems in Tibet Plateau
文摘Based on the introduction of concept of forest litter, changes in the amount of forest litter with climate zone, elevation, forest type and age of stand were analyzed, and then the decomposition of forest litter was discussed.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32072655 and 32272792)。
文摘Cover cropping is a diversifying agricultural practice that can improve soil structure and function by altering the underground litter diversity and soil microbial communities.Here,we tested how a wheat cover crop alters the decomposition of cucumber root litter.A three-year greenhouse litterbag decomposition experiment showed that a wheat cover crop accelerates the decomposition of cucumber root litter.A microcosm litterbag experiment further showed that wheat litter and the soil microbial community could improve cucumber root litter decomposition.Moreover,the wheat cover crop altered the abundances and diversities of soil bacterial and fungal communities,and enriched several putative keystone operational taxonomic units(OTUs),such as Bacillus sp.OTU1837 and Mortierella sp.OTU1236,that were positively related to the mass loss of cucumber root litter.The representative bacterial and fungal strains B186 and M3 were isolated and cultured.In vitro decomposition tests demonstrated that both B186 and M3 had cucumber root litter decomposition activity and a stronger effect was found when they were co-incubated.Overall,a wheat cover crop accelerated cucumber root litter decomposition by altering the soil microbial communities,particularly by stimulating certain putative keystone taxa,which provides a theoretical basis for using cover crops to promote sustainable agricultural development.
基金Sponsored by The National Natural Science Foundation of China(32271848).
文摘Soil organic carbon(SOC)from different sources and with distinct chemical properties exhibit variations in their accumulation mechanisms.Exploring the effects of different litter treatments on SOC storage is of great significance for understanding the formation and accumulation mechanisms of the SOC pool.The feedback mechanisms of new and old SOC in response to tree species and litter treatments were quantitatively analyzed by the C3 plant/C4 soil replacement method.The litter treatments included no litter,aboveground litter,belowground forest litter,and aboveground+belowground litter,totaling four treatments.The results showed that in the first year,cork oak(Quercusvariabilis)exhibited the highest net SOC content increment and net new SOC increment,but the values declined rapidly from the second year onward.The net increment in SOC content was positive at all sample sites,while the priming effect was not significant at any site.Litter treatments had a significant impact on both SOC content and net SOC increment.Compared with aboveground litter,belowground litter was more effective in increasing SOC Content and net SOC increment.
基金financially supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2023YFF1305500)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.32022056,32101509,and 32171641)。
文摘Climate warming has intensified the global hydrological cycle,amplifying the differences in precipitation and soil moisture between arid and humid areas.Such a change under regional drought may alter nitrogen(N)and phosphorus(P)releases during litter decomposition in terrestrial ecosystems,but how these biogeochemical processes respond to drought differently between arid and humid areas remains unclear.Here,we compiled 259 and 138 paired observations(with and without drought conditions)to assess the global variations in the drought effects on N and P releases during litter decomposition between arid(aridity index<0.5)and humid(aridity index>0.5)areas.Litter N release increased under drought in both arid(0.35%)and humid(3.62%)areas,and P release decreased by 7.32%in arid areas but increased by 2.22%in humid areas under drought.These changes in N and P releases from decomposing litter were positively correlated with drought duration in arid areas,dependent on microclimate,edaphic factors,and litter quality.Our findings highlight the contrasting effects of drought on litter N and P releases between arid and humid ecosystems,and this differential influence will greatly improve our capability to evaluate and forecast nutrient cycling during litter decomposition under different precipitation patterns.
基金funded by the Kenya National Research Fund(NRF-Kenya,2018).
文摘The study determined the carbon stocks and litter nutrient concentration in tropical forests along the ecological gradient in Kenya.This could help understand the potential of mitigating climate change using tropical forest ecosystems in different ecological zones,which are being affected by climate change to a level that they are becoming carbon sources instead of sinks.Stratified sampling technique was used to categorize tropical forests into rain,moist deciduous and dry zone forests depending on the average annual rainfall received.Simple random sampling technique was used to select three tropical forests in each category.Modified consistent sampling technique was used to develop 10 main 20 m×100 m plots in each forest,with 202 m×50 m sub-plots in each plot.Systematic random sampling technique was used in selecting 10 sub-plots from each main plot for inventory study.Non-destructive approach based on allometric equations using trees’diameter at breast height(DBH),total height and species’wood specific gravity were used in estimating tree carbon stock in each forest.Soil organic carbon(SOC)and litter nutrient concentration(total phosphorus and nitrogen)were determined in each forest based on standard laboratory procedures.The results indicated that,whilst trees in rain forests recorded a significantly higher(p<0.001)DBH(20.36 cm)and total tree height(12.1 m),trees in dry zone forests recorded a significantly higher(p<0.001)specific gravity(0.67 kg m^(−3)).Dry zone tropical forests stored a significantly lower amount of total tree carbon of 73 Mg ha^(−1),compared to tropical rain forests(439.5 Mg ha^(−1))and moist deciduous tropical forests(449 Mg ha^(−1)).The SOC content was significantly higher in tropical rainforests(3.9%),compared to soils from moist deciduous(2.9%)and dry zone forests(1.8%).While litter from tropical rain forests recorded a significantly higher amount of total nitrogen(3.4%),litter from dry zone forests recorded a significantly higher concentration of total phosphorus(0.27%).In conclusion,ecological gradient that is dictated by the prevailing temperatures and precipitation affects the tropical forests carbon stock potential and litter nutrient concentration.This implies that,the changing climate is having a serious implication on the ecosystem services such as carbon stock and nutrients cycling in tropical forests.
基金support received by the University of South Africa for a conducive research environment。
文摘Water resources are vital for all living beings and should be managed properly to ensure the safety and well-being of humankind.Surface water bodies are constantly faced with serious contamination risks generated primarily by human activities and urbanization.The problem of waste littering and dumping in developing countries like Nigeria is increasingly affecting environmental resources such as air and water.Several studies have revealed alarming levels of heavy metals that exceed the World Health Organization(WHO)standards.Plastic waste represents a substantial portion of litter,affecting water quality.Pollution results in the depletion of aquatic ecosystems and an increase in water-related diseases.This review aims to assess the impact of waste littering and dumping on surface water quality in Nigeria.In this review,the findings of various studies on surface water bodies in Nigeria,particularly those under the influence of urbanization and waste disposal,were compiled.This review compared numerous physical and chemical parameters like pH,dissolved oxygen,and heavy metals,and microbiological properties such as total coliforms.The water quality index(WQI)was also computed in these studies to ascertain the suitability of the water samples for human consumption.Review results showed that numerous water bodies in Nigeria have significantly diverse water quality levels,with some samples meeting or exceeding the WHO guidelines for microbiological,chemical,and physical characteristics.Notably,levels of heavy metals,turbidity,and pH frequently exceeded permissible limits,pointing to contamination from agricultural and industrial sources.The WQI results for multiple locations revealed that the majority of surface water sources were classified as“bad”to“very bad”,meaning they were unfit for human consumption.The results emphasized the critical need for immediate action to prevent further harm and deterioration of surface water bodies in Nigeria.Recommendations include strengthening waste management policies,promoting recycling initiatives,fostering collaborations among stakeholders,developing littering penalties and enforcing fines to curb the challenge,and raising educational awareness from the primary level.This review emphasizes the need for proactive measures to protect the environment and surface water quality in Nigeria.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32122059)the National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFD2200402)+5 种基金the Chinese Academy of Sciences Young Talents Programthe LiaoNing Revitalization Talents Program (XLYC2007016) to QWW2024 Joint Fund Project Funding Program (2023-MSBA-137) to JJDChinese Academy of Sciences President's International Fellowship Initiative (2022VCA0010)the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (KAKENHI,17F17403) to QWW and HKAcademy of Finland Project(324555) to TMR
文摘Photodegradation is considered as a universal contributing factor to litter decomposition and carbon(C)cycling within the Earth’s biomes.Identifying how solar radiation modifies the molecular structure of litter is essen-tial to understand the mechanism controlling its decom-position and reaction to shifts in climatic conditions and land-use.In this study,we performed a spectral-attenuation experiment following litter decomposition in an understory and gap of a temperate deciduous forest.We found that short-wavelength visible light,especially blue light,was the main factor driving variation in litter molecular struc-ture of Fagus crenata Blume,Quercus crispula Blume,Acer carpinifolium Siebold&Zuccarini and Betula platyphylla Sukaczev,explaining respectively 56.5%,19.4%,66.3%,and 16.7%of variation in its chemical composition.However,the variation also depended on canopy openness:Only in the forest gap was lignin aromatic C negatively associated with C-oxygen(C–O)bonding in polysaccharides receiv-ing treatments containing blue light of the full spectrum of solar radiation.Regardless of species,the decomposition index of litter that explained changes in mass and lignin loss was driven by the relative content of C–O stretching in poly-saccharides and lignin aromatic C.The results suggest that the availability of readily degradable polysaccharides pro-duced by the reduction in lignin aromatic C most plausibly explains the rate of litter photodegradation.Photo-products of photodegradation might augment the C pool destabilized by the input of readily degradable organic compounds(i.e.,polysaccharides).
基金This study was supported by National Natural Sci-ence Foundation of China (30470299)Key Project of National Sci-ence Foundation of China (30430570).
文摘A study was conducted to identify the differences in the decompositions of leaf litter, lignin and carbohydrate between coniferous forest and broadleaf forest at 20℃ and 30℃ in Huangshan Mountain, Anhui Province, China. Results showed that at 20℃ mass loss of leaf litter driven by microbial decomposers was higher in broadleaf forest than that in coniferous forest, whereas the difference in mass loss of leaf litter was not significant at 30℃. The temperature increase did not affect the mass loss of leaf litter for coniferous forest treatment, but significantly reduced the decomposition rate for broadleaf forest treatment. The functional decomposers of microorganism in broadleaf forest produced a higher lignin decomposition rate at 20℃, compared to that in coniferous forest, but the difference in lignin decomposition was not found between two forest types at 30℃. Improved temperature increased the lignin decomposition for both broadleaf and coniferous forest. Additionally, the functional group of microorganism from broadleaf forest showed marginally higher carbohydrate loss than that from coniferous forest at both temperatures. Temperature increase reduced the carbohydrate decomposition for broadleaf forest, while only a little reduce was found for coniferous forest. Remarkable differences occurred in responses between most enzymes （Phenoloxidase, peroxidase, !5-glucosidase and endocellulase） and decomposition rate of leaf litter to forest type and temperature, although there exist strong relationships between measured enzyme activities and decomposition rate in most cases. The reason is that more than one enzyme contribute to the mass loss of leaf litter and organic chemical components. In conclusion, at a community scale the coniferous and broadleaf forests differed in their temperature-decomposition relationships.
基金This research was sponsored by National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 39630240 and 3000132).
文摘Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.), a fast-growing, ever-green conifer tree with high yield and excellent quality, is the most important tree species of timber plantations in subtropical China. We investigated the characteristics of biomass, litterfall and nutrient fluxes in the 8, 14 and 24 year-old stands, representing the young, middle-aged and mature stands. The results showed that Chinese fir plantations in central Fujian province had high productivity, and the proportion of stem mass in total biomass was between 50%-70%. Chinese fir was low nutrient-return tree species with litterfall. Nutrient withdrawal from senescing needles was a strong age-dependence for nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in Chinese fir. With a management system of such short-rotation and continuously pure-crop planting, harvesting timber can lead to great nutrient loss, which may be one of the causes for site degradation.
文摘Leaf litter decomposition of liaotong oak (Quercus liaotungensis Koize) under temperate, subtropical and tropical forests was examined using a litter bag technique. Decomposition rates and release dynamics of nutrients Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn and P were observed separately at all three sites for I to 2 a periods. The leaf litter mass loss of liaotong oak was simulated with Olson's exponential model. Significant differences of leaf litter mass loss were found in forests of all three climate zones. Litter decomposition was accelerated with the increase of both annual mean precipitation and temperature. Our results agreed with other studies demonstrating that litter decomposition processes were greatly affected not only by soil organisms (including soil fauna and microorganisms), but also by chemical factors. These chemical factors were important for controlling the release of nutrients, especially elements of Fe and Mn. We also found that Fe and Mn content increased in semi-decayed leaf litter as litter mass decreased. This result was presumably due to chelating process which accumulated soil Fe and Mn ions into the decomposing litter. In conclusion, our study allowed us to determine the classification of the characteristics of different nutrient release patterns.
文摘The role of forest litter as an acid-base buffering system was assessed by litter from plantation and natural forests in South China. Samples were either extracted with acid solutions or titrated with acid or base solutions. Litter was found to be a strong acid-base buffering system. Two legume species, Acacia mangium Willd and A. auriculaiformis A. Cunn, had very high litter pH values of around 6, which was 2 pH units higher than that of the soil where they grew. Litter of all other plantation species had litter pH of around 4, similar to that of the soil. Both legume species have high potential to neutralize soil acidity and the litter layer could act to shield soil against acid rain. The current stand of two legume species was estimated to be able to raise rain acidity by 0.1 to 0.4 pH units. Inorganic ions did not fully explain the pH pattern of different litter extracts, but high sodium and low nitrate partly accounted for the high pH of the two legume species. Some natural forest species had extremely low pH. As a whole, the litter of the natural climax forest was the driving force of soil acidification. Although plant residues are strong acid-base buffering system and able to adjust acidity of environment, only a few species can be expected to make soil more acid or alkaline through this mechanism since most species have litter pH values similar to those of soil where they grow.
基金Foundation project： This work was supported by the Knowledge Innova- tion Project of the Chinese Academy of Sciences （KZCX2-YW-416） and the National Natural Science Foundation （90411020）
文摘The effects of nitrogen （N） availability and tree species on the dynamics of carbon and nitrogen at early stage of decomposition of forest litter were studied in a 13-week laboratory incubation experiment. Fresh litter samples including needle litter （Pinus koraiensis） and two types of broadleaf litters （Quercus mongolica and Tilia amurensis） were collected from a broadleaf-korean pine mixed forest in the northern slope of Changbai Mountain （China）. Different doses of N （equal to 0, 30 and 50 kg.ha^-1yr^-1, respectively, as NH4NO3） were added to litter during the experiment period. The litter decomposition rate expressed as mass loss and respiration rate increased significantly with increasing N availability. The mass loss and cumulative CO2-C emission were higher in leaf litter compared to that in needle litter. The dis- solved organic Carbon （DOC） concentrations in litter leachate varied widely between the species, but were not greatly affected by N treatments. Regardless of the N addition rate, both N treatments and species had no significant effect on dissolved organic N （DON） concentrations in litter leachate. About 52-78% of added N was retained in the litter. The percentage of N retention was positively correlated （R^2=0.9 1, p〈0.05） with the litter mass loss. This suggested that a forest floor with easily decomposed litter might have higher potential N sink strength than that with more slowly decomposed litter.
基金This paper is supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (30170768)
文摘Larch (Larix olgensis), Manchurian ash (Fraxinus mandshurica), Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) and White birch (Betula platyphylla) are the major planting species in northeast China. The samples of forest litters were collected from the stands of the above 4 species in Laoyeling and Jianlagou experiment stations of Maorshan Exp. Forest Farm (45?2-45?0N, 127?0-127?8E), Northeast Forestry University, in early October 2002. Quantitative analysis and qualitative analysis were carried out on the organic acids existing in freshly fallen litters (L layer) and hemi-decomposed litters (F layer) of the four forest species by using Gas Chromatogram system. A wide variety of organic acids were identified, including oxalic, malonic, fumaric, succinic, maleic, malic, citric, C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, C18:2, C18:3 and C20:0 acids. In respect of L litters of all samples, the oxalic acid content (over 30 mg/g) was the highest of the seven low-molecular-weight organic acids identified, while the content of oleic or linoleic (above 40 mg/g) was found to be highest among the six high aliphatic acids identified. As to F litters, oxalic acid content was also the highest, followed by linoleic and oleic. For the same tree species or the same forest, the kinds and contents of organic acids in L litters were more abundant than that in F litters.
文摘A litter bag study of needle (Abies veitchii Lindl. and A. mariesi Mast.) and leaf litter (Betula ermanii Cham. and B. corylifolia Regal. et Maxim.) conducted in a coniferous forest of Mt. Ontake, Japan showed the similar qualities of two type litters in later stages (after the 30th month). Although the difference in remaining mass between the two litters was larger in later stage of decomposition and initial concentration of nutrients was different. The concentrations of carbon (C) fraction and nutrients between the two types of litter tended to similar in the later stages. The similar concentration trend of nutrients was due to different mechanisms. Nitrogen (N) was due to immobilization of fungi and binding with lignin. K and Mg were leaching elements. They were very easily affected in leaching process. In the later stage, they reached a similar concentration because of a balance with the soil concentration. Ca is a construction element, so its behavior has closely related to that of C fractions. Moreover, C fractions were lignified or humuified and remained similar in later stage, Ca was also became similar in concentration in the later stage.
基金Supported by Key Lab Project of Liaoning Education Department(2009S067)~~
文摘[ Objective] To analyze the FUT1 gene polymorphism of Hebao pigs and its relationship with litter size and provide reference for conservation, breeding, development and utilization of Hebao pigs. [Method] The DNA was extracted from Hebao pigs＇ ears, and the polymorphism of FUT1 gene was detected by PCR-RFLP. Then the relationship between genotype and litter size was analyzed. [Result] The FUT1 gene had three kinds of genotypes, GG, AG and AA, as indicated by digestion with Hin6 I. The genotype frequency of AA was 0.115 9, and the allele frequency of A was 0.275 4. The average litter size from the 1 = parity to the 5th parity was higher in the individuals with the genotype AA than in those with the genotype AG or GG. And this difference was significant in average litter size of the 3th parity and the 4th parity （ P 〈 0.05）. [ Conclusion ] The FUT-1 gene is polymorphic in Hebao pigs, and the allele frequency is similar to that of foreign Duroc pigs but greatly different from that of other breeds such as Landrace, Large white, and Landrace x Large white pigs. The genotype AA is a prevalent genotype for litter trait.
文摘The presence of a thatch layer in established pastures could reduce the contact between broiler litter and soil, thus increasing the potential for surface runoff contamination with litter P. We conducted a laboratory study to evaluate the effect of a thatch layer on the dynamics of water-soluble P in undisturbed cores taken from a pasture. Cores with and without a thatch layer received a surface application of broiler litter (5 thm-2) and were incubated at 25 oC for 56 d. The result showed that on the soil surface the contents of water soluble-P (39 kghm-2) of the cores with the thatch layer was higher than that (20 kghm-2) of the cores without the thatch layer. Therefore on well-established pastures fertilized with broiler litter, the presence of a thatch layer might lead to high concentrations of water-soluble P on the soil surface.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 30471378, 90202010 and 30211130504),and the Program of 100 Distinguished Young Scientists of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
文摘Litter production, components and dynamics were investigated and forest floor litter was quantified throughout awhole year in three subalpine forests, dominated by tree species of spruce (SF), fir (FF) and birch (BF), in WesternSichuan, China, in order to understand the key factors that influenced litter production and dynamics. Litterfall in thethree forests consisted mainly of leaves, woody litter, reproductive organs and moss. Contribution of leaf litter to thetotal litterfall was significantly (P < 0.05) greater than that of woody litter, reproductive organs or moss. Regardlessof the stands, litterfall exhibited a marked monthly variation with the maximum litterfall peaks occurring in October,with smaller peaks occurring in February for SF and FF, and May for BF. The analysis indicated that tree species,stand density, leaf area index (LAI), stand basal area and stand age were the key factors determining litter production.Meanwhile tree species and phenology controlled the litter dynamics, with wind and snow modifying the litter componentsand dynamics.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation,China(No.31300522)the Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education,China(No.20125103120018)+1 种基金the Scientific Research Fund of Sichuan Provincial Education Department,China(No.12ZA118)the National Key Technology R&D Program,China(No.2011BAC09B05)
文摘Bamboos are one of the fast-growing and multiple use species in the world, and thus bamboo forests/plantations play an important role in C sequestration at regional and global levels. We studied aboveground litterfall, litter decomposition and nutrient dynamics for two years in two subtropical bamboo ecosystems in Southwest China so as to test the hypothesis that litter quality determine the rate and nutrient dynamics during decomposition of different litter fractions. Mean annual total aboveground litter production ranged from 494 to 434 g m-2 in two bamboo stands （P stand, dominated by Pleioblastus amarus and H stand, hybrid bamboo dominated by Bambusa pervariabilis x Dendrocalamopsis daii）. Bulk （-80%） of litter production was contributed by leaf litter in two stands followed by twigs and sheathes. Different litter fractions represented considerable variations in the rates of mass loss and nutrient release. Variation of the mass remaining after 2 years of decomposition was significantly explained by initial C/N ratio and initial P concentration. Initial concentrations of N, P, Ca, and Mg explained 57.9%, 95.0%, 99.8% and 98.1%, respectively, of the variations of these elements mass remaining after 2 years of decomposition. The patterns of nutrient dynamics and the final amount remaining were mainly determined by their initial litter substrate quality in tl^ese two subtropical bamboo plantations.
