Charles McClaugherty – författare

This book gives basic facts about litter decomposition studies, which are of guidance for scientists who start studies. Since the publication of the third edition, there has been quite a development not only in the field of litter decomposition but also in supporting branches of science, which are important for fruitful work on and understanding of decomposition of plant litter and sequestration of carbon. A consequence is that ‘old established truths’ are becoming outdated.

New knowledge in the fields of phytochemistry and microbial ecology has given a new baseline for discussing the concepts ‘litter decomposition’ and ‘carbon sequestration’. We can also see a rich literature on litter decomposition studies using roots and wood as substrates. These have given new insights in factors that regulate the decomposition rate and as regards roots their contribution to sequestered carbon in humus. Additional facts on the role of temperature vs the litters’ chemical compositionmay in part change our view on effects of climate change.

Further information on applications of the new analytical technique (13C-NMR) for determining organic-chemical compounds has allowed us to develop these parts.

Since the publication of the 2nd edition, there have been substantial developments in the field of litter decomposition. This fully revised and updated 3rd edition of Plant Litter reflects and discusses new findings and re-evaluates earlier ones in light of recent research and with regard to current areas of investigation. 

The availability of several long-term studies allows a more in-depth approach to decomposition patterns and to the later stages of decomposition, as well as to humus formation and accumulation.

The latest information focuses on three fields:

- the effects of manganese on decomposition and possibly on carbon sequestration,

- new findings on decomposition dynamics, and

- the new analytical technique using 13C-NMR.