Zhang Jiang-shan

Soil microbial biomass and its controls

Microbial biomass represents a relatively small standing stock of nutrients, compared to soil organic matter, but it can act as a labile source of nutrients for plants, a pathway for incorporation of organic matter into the soil, and a temporary sink for nutrients. This review describes several factors controlling the dynamics of soil microbial biomass. These factors mainly include organic carbon and nitrogen limitation, residue and nutrient management, differences in plant species, soil texture, soil moisture and temperature. On the basis of detailed analysis, it is reasonable that future research would be focused on the impact of land use change on soil MB in tropical and subtropical ecosystems.

Concentrations and seasonal dynamics of dissolved organic carbon in forest floors of two plantations (Castanopsis kawakamii andCunninghamia lanceolata) in subtropical China

The concentrations and seasonal dynamics of DOC in forest floors of monoculture plantations ofCastanopsis kawakamii and Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) were assessed in Sanming, Fujian, China (26°11′30″N, 117°26′00″E). Forest floor samples were taken in January, April, July and October in 2002 and divided into undecomposed material (horizon Oi), partially decomposed organic material (horizon Oe), and fully decomposed organic material (horizon Oa). Upon collection, DOC concentrations of samples were analyzed by a High Temperature TOC. The results showed that the annual average DOC concentration of Chinese fir (1341.7 mg·kg−1) in the forest floor was higher than that ofCastanopsis kawakamii (1178.9 mg·kg−1). Difference in DOC concentrations was observed among three horizons of the forest floor. DOC concentration of forest floor in the two forests was the highest in horizon Oe. Seasonal trends of DOC concentrations in different horizons of forest floors were similar and the maximal value occurred in autumn (or winter). The concentration and temporal change of DOC in studied forests were probably related to the variation in moisture, temperature, biological activity and quantity of organic matter in the forest floor.