Notes on the dynamics and decomposition of leaves in a Nothofagus pumilio forest

Abstract

A research project was conducted in a native forest of Nothofagus pumilio in one of the southernmost Chilean Nation Parks, Torres del Paine, to check the amount and timing of leaf fall, their decomposition rate and the respiration rate of the soil on an annual cycle.This paper also provides the results of the decay of fallen leaves in time, the loss curve of leaf weights, the evolution of water content and records of the larger taxonomic groups of microarthropods associated with the decomposition of the material.

Litterfall and leaf decomposition in Nothofagus pumilio forests along an altitudinal gradient in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

“…Few studies have analysed decomposition in Nothofagus forests, as measured through litter weight losses. Existing studies have evaluated the interactions between microorganisms and arthropods with leaf litter decomposition in laboratory conditions (Godeas et al 1985;Covarrubias 1994); woody debris decomposition (Caldentey et al 2001Frangi et al 1997; the influence of forest management (Caldentey et al 2001;Ibarra et al 2011); and litterfall decomposition and cycling along an altitudinal gradient at the end of the year of incubation (Barrera et al 2000;Frangi et al 2005;Decker, Boerner 2006). However, for a holistic approach to the forest ecosystem functioning, it is necessary to know the dynamics of decomposition for longer periods, which will enable us to relate it with environmental variables.…”