Deadwood affects the soil organic matter fractions and enzyme activity of soils in altitude gradient of temperate forests

The main objective of our study has been to determine the role of deadwood in the shaping of the amount of soil organic matter fractions in mountain forest soils. For this purpose, a climosequence approach comprising north (N) and south (S) exposure along the altitudinal gradient (600, 800, 1000 and 1200 m a.s.l.) was set up. By comparing the properties of decomposing deadwood and those of the soils located directly beneath the decaying wood we drew conclusions about the role of deadwood in the shaping of soil organic matter fractions and soil carbon storage in different climate conditions. The basic properties, enzymatic activity and fractions of soil organic matter (SOM) were determined in deadwood and affected directly by the components released from decaying wood. Heavily decomposed deadwood impacts soil organic matter stabilization more strongly than the less decayed deadwood and the light fraction of SOM is more sensitive to deadwood effects than the heavy fraction regardless of the location in the altitude gradient. Increase in SOM mineral-associated fraction C content is more pronounced in soils under the influence of deadwood located in lower locations of warmer exposure. Nutrients released from decaying wood stimulate the enzymatic activity of soils that are within the range of deadwood influence.

Automated summary

The main objective of this study was to determine the role of deadwood in the formation of soil organic matter fractions in mountain forest soils. By comparing the properties of decomposing deadwood and the soils beneath it, conclusions were drawn about the influence of deadwood on soil organic matter fractions and carbon storage in different climate conditions. Heavily decomposed deadwood had a stronger impact on soil organic matter stabilization, while the light fraction of organic matter was more sensitive to deadwood effects. The release of nutrients from decaying wood stimulated enzymatic activity in the influenced soils.