Litter nutrient dynamics under different tree plantations of humid subtropical region of Uttarakhand, India

Sivaranjani S; Vijender Pal Panwar

doi:10.15287/afr.2025.3113

Authors

Sivaranjani S Govind Ballabh Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE), North-East Regional Centre, Itanagar
Vijender Pal Panwar ICFRE - Forest Research Institute, Dehradun

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15287/afr.2025.3113

Keywords:

litter dynamics, nutrient return, Pinus roxburghii, Shorea robusta, Bambusa tulda.

Abstract

Litter plays a vital role in forest ecosystems, significantly contributing to nutrient cycling through litter production and decomposition. Understanding these processes is crucial for forest management and conservation, especially in the face of global environmental changes. This research is important because it provides insights into the litterfall patterns and nutrient dynamics of different tree species, which are essential for maintaining forest health and productivity. The present study aimed to determine the quantity and pattern of litterfall and nutrient return to the forest floor of Pinus roxburghii, Shorea robusta, and Bambusa tulda. We collected litterfall monthly over two years in three different plantations of P. roxburghii, S. robusta, and B. tulda, and measured the nutrient content of the litter. The mean annual litter production recorded in these plantations was greatest in B. tulda (4652.15 kg ha-1yr-1), followed by S. robusta (3731.4 kg ha-1yr-1) and P. roxburghii (2588.85 kg ha-1yr-1). The plantations included both the main species and associated understory vegetation, such as herbs and shrubs. Leaf litter from the main species accounted for the highest total litterfall in April. During this period, leaf litter accounted for approximately 24% of the total in S. robusta, 16% in P. roxburghii, and 15% in B. tulda. Minimum mean monthly litterfall was recorded in September and November for P. roxburghii and S. robusta, and in November and December for B. tulda. There was significant monthly variation in nutrient content between the species. Maximum nitrogen (N) was measured during June for P. roxburghii, December for S. robusta, and January for B. tulda, and phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) concentrations also varied significantly. Annual patterns of nutrient return followed the order N > K > P. Maximum nutrient return was observed during April in all species due to higher litter production during that month. There was greater variability in litter quality in the broadleaved forest (S. robusta) than in the coniferous forest (P. roxburghii), indicating the more dynamic functioning of broad-leaved plantations compared to coniferous ones.. This research highlights the critical role of litterfall in nutrient cycling within forest ecosystems and underscores the importance of considering species-specific litter dynamics in forest management and conservation strategies.

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