Chemical composition and leaf decomposition rate by Byrsonima gardneriana A. Juss / Composição química e taxa de decomposição foliar de Byrsonima gardneriana A. Juss

Abstract

The litter is one of the main sources of soil nutrients, because the maintenance of forest ecosystems occurs through the process of nutrients cycling that are present in leaf material. The aim of this research was to evaluate the decomposition rate of Byrsonima gardneriana, correlating with soil and climatic conditions and chemical composition. For decomposition rate evaluation, litter bags distributed on the soil surface were utilized during the period from April/2012 to February/2013. Litter bags were collected monthly, and sorting, cleaning and weighing of the material were carried out to quantify the remaining material. Rainfall, water content and soil temperature were also measured monthly. The leaf material was transported to the laboratory and it was made the determinations of Nitrogen, Carbon, Lignin, Cellulose, Hemicellulose levels and C: N and N:lig relations. Considering the results, it was concluded that leaves of B. gardneriana present high levels of lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose and high C: N ratio, demonstrating the resistance of this material to decompose; and that highest rate of decomposition occurs in the rainy season.

Keywords

• caatinga
• nutrient cycle
• native species