Question

Explain how the composition and elemental content of plant residues influences the decomposition rates. How do environmental conditions also contribute to the variability of decomposition rates

Answer 1

Answer :)

The relation of plant residues with the decomposition rate is still not well understood. There are some reports, which mention the effects. Plant residues with high carbon/nitrogen ratios decompose slowly. Water content is also necessary to be low enough because higher water content slows decomposition. The aromatic content of the residues also decomposes slowly.

The harsh environmental condition lowers the decomposition rate. Such as, low oxygen content decreases decomposition by aerobic microorganisms. Too low or too high temperature also decomposes the plant residues slowly. If soil is not properly aerated, the decomposition rate also gets slow.