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Soil animals alter plant litter diversity effects on decomposition
Stephan Hättenschwiler1, Patrick Gasser
1Institute of Botany, University of Basel, Schönbeinstrasse 6, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland. stephan.hattenschwiler@cefe.cnrs.fr
Summary
Litter species diversity significantly impacts decomposition rates, with soil animals playing a crucial role in regulating these changes. This interaction influences ecosystem carbon and nutrient cycling, especially in forests with rich soil fauna.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Biogeochemistry
- Soil Science
Background:
- Terrestrial ecosystems rely on decomposition for nutrient cycling.
- The influence of biodiversity on decomposition rates is not fully understood.
- Climate and litter quality are known drivers of decomposition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how litter species diversity affects decomposition rates.
- To determine if soil fauna mediate the relationship between litter diversity and decomposition.
- To understand the interactive effects of litter diversity and soil fauna on ecosystem processes.
Main Methods:
- Experimental manipulation of litter species diversity in a temperate forest.
- Measurement of species-specific decomposition rates.
- Assessment of the role of soil macrofauna in mediating litter diversity effects.
Main Results:
- Decomposition rates of individual litter species varied significantly with the presence of other species.
- Soil fauna were identified as key drivers of the magnitude and direction of litter diversity effects on decomposition.
- Litter species richness and soil fauna interactively controlled decomposition rates.
Conclusions:
- Soil fauna play a fundamental role in modulating decomposition responses to changes in litter diversity.
- Ecosystem carbon and nutrient cycling are influenced by the interplay between litter diversity and soil fauna.
- Biodiversity loss can have significant implications for long-term ecosystem functioning, particularly in ecosystems with well-developed soil fauna communities.