Decomposition and nutrient dynamics of stumps and coarse roots of Eucalyptus plantations in southern China

Abstract

Abstract Key message Primary remains of Eucalyptus (E. urophylla × E. grandis) plantations following clear-cutting are the stumps and coarse roots. A chrono-sequence approach revealed that the biomass of coarse roots is higher than that of stumps, while they have a smaller rate of biomass loss than stumps. This implies that coarse roots serve as long-term stock for nutrients (carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus). Context A significant quantity of stumps and coarse roots persist in the forest floor following the clear-cutting of Eucalyptus plantations in China. The decomposition of these stumps and coarse roots is a crucial aspect of the nutrient stocks in plantation ecosystems. Aims We described the stock and decomposition dynamics of stumps and coarse roots on Eucalyptus plantations, as well as the nutrient loss rate associated with them. Methods We used a chrono-sequence of 0–6-year-old clear-cutting stands of Eucalyptus plantations in southern China. The biomass and nutrient stocks of these samples were assessed at different times of decomposition. Results The highest biomass of stump-root system was 33.8 Mg·ha−1, with nutrient stocks were 16.3 Mg·ha−1, and 63.0 kg·ha−1, and 6710.9 g·ha−1, for C, N, and P. The coarse roots accounted for 81–96% of the biomass of the stump-root system. The loss rate of biomass and nutrients from stumps was higher than that of coarse roots. This suggests that the decomposition of coarse roots could serve as a long-term source of nutrients, thereby improving the nutrient status of the plantations. Conclusion Stumps and coarse roots serve as significant nutrient stocks that decay at varying rates. The loss of nutrients must be considered while analyzing the decomposition dynamics following clear-cutting in Eucalyptus plantations.