Understory Dwarf Bamboo Modulates Leaf Litter Decomposition via Interception-Induced Litter Redistribution and Space-Dependent Decomposition Dynamics: A Case Study from Jinfo Mountain, China.

ABSTRACT: Understory vegetation, particularly dwarf bamboo, plays a crucial role in regulating forest nutrient cycles by intercepting litter and altering decomposition processes, yet its overall impacts remain understudied and insufficiently quantified. This study employs a combination of field surveys and decomposition bag experiments to investigate how understory dwarf bamboo (Fargesia decurvata) alters the spatial-temporal patterns of leaf litter production and decomposition. We found that the dwarf bamboo intercepted more than 25% of canopy litterfall, altering its spatial distribution and reducing decomposition efficiency in the bamboo crown (BC). Leaf trait-decomposition relationships differed strongly across habitats, being positive for saturated fresh weight (SFW), leaf thickness (LFT

SUBMITTER: Song HY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12566774 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature