Leaf litter decomposition and nitrogen concentration in decomposing leaves of a quercus seme‐carpifolia smith forest stand of Kumaun Himalaya

Abstract

Decomposition patterns of Quercus semecarpifolia (Kharsu oak; tree species), Viburnum cotinifolium, and Berberis asiatica (shrub species), Senecio rufinervis, Polygonum amplexicaule, and Selinum candollii (herb species) were studied. Sixty‐five per cent weight loss occurred in Kharsu oak in 360 days, whereas total disappearance of leaf litter was achieved in 360 days in both the shrub species and in 210 days in case of herb species. A highly negative correlation (r² = 0.861 to 0.949) was established between nitrogen (N) concentration and per cent weight remaining during decomposition. The absolute amount of N at various periods was calculated and N was never found more than 100% of initial mass.