Decomposition of leaf litter is a major source of nutrients in forest ecosystems. As leaves are broken down by insect and microbial decomposers, organically-bound nutrients are released as free ions to the soil solution which are then available for uptake by plants.
In most forests the major source of nutrients for trees is the process of decomposition. Decomposition refers to the processes that convert dead organic matter into smaller and simpler compounds. The products of complete decomposition are carbon dioxide, water, and inorganic ions (like ammonium or nitrate). Decomposition is mainly a biological process carried out by insects, worms, bacteria, and fungi both on the soil surface and in the soil.
The rate of decomposition is influenced by many factors. Because decomposition is a biological process carried out primarily by bacteria and fungi, its speed will be affected by temperature and soil moisture. Generally decomposition increases exponentially with temperature.
Decomposition is inhibited in very dry soils because bacteria and fungi dry out. Decomposition is very slow in wet soils because anaerobic conditions develop in saturated soils. Anaerobic decomposition is less efficient than aerobic and as a result is slower. Decomposition proceeds fastest at intermediate water contents.
No comments:
Post a Comment