The linkages of plant, litter and soil C:N:P stoichiometry and nutrient stock in different secondary mixed forest types in the Qinling Mountains, China.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) stoichiometric ratios are important indicators of ecosystem function and productivity. However, few studies have assessed the nutrient relationship between plant, litter and soil, and the nutrient stock in different secondary mixed forest types.

Methods

We investigated the C, N and P concentrations and stoichiometric ratios in trees, understory plants, litter and soil layers in three different secondary mixed forest types (broadleaf mixed forests (BM), broadleaf-conifer mixed forests (BCM) and coniferous mixed forests (CM)) in the Qinling Mountains.

Results

The results showed that significant differences in C:N:P stoichiometry were detected in multiple organs in the vegetation layers in the different forest types.

SUBMITTER: Pang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7275688 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature