| Abstract: | Fractions of organic components in mull humus of non cultivated soil profiles with special reference to various nitrogen fractions Different fractions of organic components were studied by horizons in four mull humus profiles, differing in genesis and ecology. Two of the soils were located in unmanaged grassland (Rendoll and Entisol) and two under deciduous hardwood (Eutrochept and Fluvaquent). In the grassland soils characteristic F-mull developed, but in the woodland soils L – and wet mull occurred respectively. Water soluble-, hemicellulose-, cellulose sugars and lignin derivates decreased with increasing soil depth. In contrast, amino sugars, proteins, lipids and unknown nitrogen containing fractions increased. Essential changes of those fractions happened in the organic-mineral horizons. Some clear differences among the profiles were recorded, depending on litter type, the genesis and soil water regime. At least 41% (Rendoll) to at most 50% (Fluvaquent) of the organic substance were extractable and identified. Amounts and distribution of the different organic fractions in the litter layers depend on the chemical composition of the litter. Hydrolysable unknown N, non hydrolysable and pseudo amide N increased from the litter to the mineral horizons in the Eutrochrept from 34 to 44 and in the Rendoll from 27 to 49% of total N, but in the Entisol these fractions are decreasing from 52 to 43% of total N. No change was observed in the Fluvaquent. In contrast, amino acid-, amino sugar – and true amide N decreased in most cases from the litter to the mineral horizons. Inorganic bound N, nearly exclusive fixed NH4+-N, reached not more than 5% of total nitrogen. |
