Overview
- Is the fourth edition, fully revised and updated with much new material
- Presents the latest research in the fields of phytochemistry and microbial ecology with regard to litter decomposition and carbon sequestration
- Provides information on the role of "climate" versus the litter's chemical composition
- Focuses on needle litter of Scots pine as model substrate
- Exhibits state-of-the-art information on the new analytical technique 13C-NMR
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About this book
This book gives basic facts about litter decomposition studies, which are of guidance for scientists who start studies. Since the publication of the third edition, there has been quite a development not only in the field of litter decomposition but also in supporting branches of science, which are important for fruitful work on and understanding of decomposition of plant litter and sequestration of carbon. A consequence is that ‘old established truths’ are becoming outdated.
New knowledge in the fields of phytochemistry and microbial ecology has given a new baseline for discussing the concepts ‘litter decomposition’ and ‘carbon sequestration’. We can also see a rich literature on litter decomposition studies using roots and wood as substrates. These have given new insights in factors that regulate the decomposition rate and as regards roots their contribution to sequestered carbon in humus. Additional facts on the role of temperature vs the litters’ chemical compositionmay in part change our view on effects of climate change.
Further information on applications of the new analytical technique (13C-NMR) for determining organic-chemical compounds has allowed us to develop these parts.
Focus is laid on needle litter of Scots pine as a model substrate as this species has been considerably more studied than other litter species. Also the boreal/northern temperate coniferous forest has in part been given this role. Still, new information may allow us to develop information about litter from further tree species.Similar content being viewed by others
Keywords
Table of contents (13 chapters)
Authors and Affiliations
Bibliographic Information
Book Title: Plant Litter
Book Subtitle: Decomposition, Humus Formation, Carbon Sequestration
Authors: Björn Berg, Charles McClaugherty
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-59631-6
Publisher: Springer Cham
eBook Packages: Biomedical and Life Sciences, Biomedical and Life Sciences (R0)
Copyright Information: Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020
Hardcover ISBN: 978-3-030-59630-9Published: 04 December 2020
Softcover ISBN: 978-3-030-59633-0Published: 04 December 2021
eBook ISBN: 978-3-030-59631-6Published: 03 December 2020
Edition Number: 4
Number of Pages: XVI, 332
Number of Illustrations: 93 b/w illustrations, 6 illustrations in colour
Topics: Microbial Ecology, Geoecology/Natural Processes, Nature Conservation, Plant Sciences, Microbiology