Hydrological Properties of Litter in Different Vegetation Types: Implications for Ecosystem Functioning

Abstract

This study investigated the hydrological properties of litter in different vegetation cover types, including Eucalyptus sp. plantation, Agroforestry, and Restoration Forest. The research focused on evaluating litter accumulation, composition, water holding capacity, and effective water retention. The results revealed variations in litter accumulation among the stands, and especially Eucalyptus sp., which had a higher proportion of branches compared to leaves. The water holding capacity of the litter differed among the stands. Agroforest and Restoration Forest showed higher litter water capacities than Eucalyptus sp. The composition and decomposition stage of the litter fractions influenced their water retention capabilities, with leaves exhibiting superior water retention. In contrast, branches had lower water absorption due to their hydrophobic nature. Despite these differences, the effective water retention, which indicates the ability of litter to intercept precipitation, was similar among the stands. The findings highlight the importance of considering litter composition and species-specific characteristics in understanding the hydrological functions of litter. This knowledge contributes to effective conservation and management strategies for sustainable land use practices and water resource management. Further research is recommended to expand the study’s scope to include a wider range of forest types and natural field conditions, providing a more comprehensive understanding of litter hydrological functions and their implications for ecosystem processes.