Plant Litter Decomposition, Humus Formation, Carbon Sequestration

About this book

This fully revised and updated 2nd edition of Plant Litter focuses on decomposition processes in natural terrestrial systems such as boreal and temperate forests. The availability of several long-term studies from these forest types allows a more in-depth approach to the later stages of decomposition as well as to humus formation. It further briefly explores how processes are modified due to anthropogenic influences. Earlier findings are re-evaluated in light of recent research and with relevance to current areas of investigation. New concepts that modify or go beyond those already presented are covered and a new chapter on patterns of decomposition and accumulation on a regional scale was introduced.

Contents

- Introduction
- Decomposition as a Process
- Decomposer Organisms
- Initial Litter Chemical Composition and Factors Determining it
- Changes in Substrate Composition During Decay
- Influence of Chemically Varying Substances on Decomposition
- Climatic Environment
- Site Factors Other Than Climate
- Decomposition of Woody and Root Litter
- Models That Describe Decomposition
- Decomposition and Ecosystem Function
- Human Interactions With Decomposition.-

Customer Reviews