Litter decomposition and soil microbial community composition in three Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) forests along an altitudinal gradient

Background and aims : The factors controlling litter decomposition and soil microbial community are important regulators of biogeochemical processes. Here we aim to explore controls on litter decomposition dynamics and soil microbial community composition in temperate forest by comparing three Korean pine forests along an altitudinal gradient. : Single- and mixed-species litter decomposition rates were determined by the litterbag method and soil microbial community composition was characterized by PLFAs. : Litter decomposition rates decreased with altitude regardless of litter type, and were controlled by temperature. Generally, fine root litter decomposed more rapidly than leaf litter, and mixed-species litter decomposed faster than single-species. Soil microbial biomass C and N decreased with altitude and varied differently among forest types in response to soil temperature and nutrient status. Fungal: bacterial PLFA ratios were significantly larger in forests receiving relatively poor litter quality inputs. Soil temperature, soil water content, total soil N and P were all directly related to the changes in total PLFAs among three forests. : In these Korean pines dominated temperate forests, environmental changes associated with altitude gradient drive decomposition dynamics and soil microbial community composition. This implies that climate change might be an important factor affecting these systems in the future.