Nitrogen input by bamboos in neotropical forest: a new perspective.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Nitrogen (N) is an important macronutrient that controls the productivity of ecosystems and biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) is a major source of N in terrestrial systems, particularly tropical forests. Bamboo dominates theses forests, but our knowledge regarding the role of bamboo in ecosystem functioning remains in its infancy. We investigated the importance of a native bamboo species to the N cycle of a Neotropical forest.

Methods

We selected 100 sample units (100 m² each) in a pristine montane Atlantic Forest, in Brazil. We counted all the clumps and live culms of Merostachys neesii bamboo and calculated the specific and total leaf area, as well as litter production and respective N content. Potential N input was estimated based on availabl

SUBMITTER: Padgurschi MCG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6275114 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature