Labile carbon effects on nematodes, enchytraeids, and N mineralization in Norway spruce forest soil

The effect of sucrose (4 g kg⁻¹) on the population dynamics of nematodes and enchytraeids and on N mineralization was studied in laboratory microcosms containing 30 g of Norway spruce forest humus. Sucrose did not have a positive influence on nematode and enchytraeid dynamics but neither ammonium nor nitrate concentration was affected. The results indicate that faunal activity can counteract microbial N immobilization at C limited conditions.