Environmental Conditions Modulate Warming Effects on Plant Litter Decomposition Globally.

ABSTRACT: Empirical studies worldwide show that warming has variable effects on plant litter decomposition, leaving the overall impact of climate change on decomposition uncertain. We conducted a meta-analysis of 109 experimental warming studies across seven continents, using natural and standardised plant material, to assess the overarching effect of warming on litter decomposition and identify potential moderating factors. We determined that at least 5.2° of warming is required for a significant increase in decomposition. Overall, warming did not have a significant effect on decomposition at a global scale. However, we found that warming reduced decomposition in warmer, low-moisture areas, while it slightly increased decomposition in colder regions, although this increase was not significant. This

SUBMITTER: Schwieger S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11687348 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature