Long-term dynamics of pine and hardwood litter in contrasting environments: Toward a global model of decomposition

Abstract

We analysed data on mass loss after five years of decomposition in the field from both fine root and leaf litters from two highly contrasting trees, Drypetes glallca, a tropical hardwood tree from Puerto Rico, and pine species from North America as part of the Long-Term Intersite Decomposition Experiment (LIDET). LIDET is a reciprocal litterbag study involving the transplanting of litter from 27 species across 28 sites in North and Central America reflecting a wide variety of natural and managed ecosystems and climates, from Arctic tundra to tropical rainforest.

Citation

Gholz, Henry L.; Wedin, David A.; Smitherman, Stephen M.; Harmon, Mark E.; Parton, William J. 2000. Long-term dynamics of pine and hardwood litter in contrasting environments: Toward a global model of decomposition. Global Change Biology (2000) 6, 751-765