Leaf litter decomposition in Torna stream before and after a red mud disaster
T Kucserka1, Kata Karádi-Kovács2, M Vass2
1University of Pannonia Department of Limnology H-8200 Veszprém Egyetem u. 10 Hungary University of Pannonia Department of Meteorology and Water Management H-8380 Keszthely Festetics u. 14 Hungary.
Acta Biologica Hungarica
|February 25, 2014
Summary
A toxic mud spill significantly slowed leaf litter decomposition in an artificial agricultural stream. Fungal biomass decreased, and mass loss no longer followed a predictable exponential decay model post-spill.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Biogeochemistry
Background:
- Allochthonous litter decomposition is crucial for stream ecosystem functioning.
- Agricultural areas often face pollution risks impacting aquatic environments.
- Understanding decomposition dynamics helps assess ecosystem health and resilience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify leaf litter breakdown in an artificial stream before and after a toxic mud spill.
- To compare decomposition rates and fungal biomass changes.
- To evaluate the impact of pollution on ecosystem processes.
Main Methods:
- Litter bags containing three leaf types (Quercus robur, Populus tremula, Salix alba) were deployed in an artificial stream.
- Fungal biomass was assessed using ergosterol quantification.
- Leaf mass loss and decay curves were analyzed before and after a toxic mud spill.
Main Results:
- Leaf mass loss significantly slowed after the toxic mud spill compared to pre-spill rates.
- Fungal biomass was reduced post-spill, likely due to limited sporulation substrate.
- Post-spill decay curves deviated from the exponential model, indicating altered decomposition dynamics.
- Only pH and conductivity showed significant increases post-spill.
Conclusions:
- Toxic mud spills severely impair leaf litter decomposition in artificial streams.
- Pollution events disrupt microbial communities (fungi) and alter decomposition pathways.
- The stream's modified, concrete-lined structure may influence decomposition rates and resilience to disturbances.
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