Litterfall Carbon and Nitrogen Content of Beech Forests in Serbia

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the N storage capacity of litterfall and its impact on C mineralization in beech forests. The research was conducted at 15 sample plots under European beech stands located in different ecological conditions on the territory of Serbia. More than half (53%) of the sample plots are characterized by low and very low litterfall N content (<8 g·kg−1; 9–12 g·kg−1), and a wide C/N ratio, which indicates a slow decomposition of the organic soil layer. These results could be useful indicators of the capacity and dynamics of litterfall N storage and its impact on C mineralization in the context of preserving biodiversity, stability, and longevity of beech forests in Serbia.

Keywords

• central balkans
• fagus sylvatica
• mineralization
• organic layer
• soil management