Land cover affects the breakdown of Pinus elliottii needles litter by microorganisms in soil and stream systems of subtropical riparian zones

Abstract

Riparian zones are important interface areas between soil and stream systems. Few studies carried out in tropical and subtropical regions evaluate litter decomposition in both stream water and riparian soils. Herein, we assessed the effects of land cover on microbial activity on the decomposition of an exotic litter (Pinus elliottii pine needles only) in water and soils of a subtropical riparian zone. Leaf litter breakdown rates (k in d−1) were estimated for different land covers (Grassland without riparian vegetation, Grassland with riparian vegetation, Forest, and Silviculture). To assess the microbial influence on k, we used fine mesh litter bags with monospecific leaf litter of senescent pine needles. Streams in Silviculture land use showed high k values and orthophosphate, dissolved oxygen and water velocity accelerated the leaf litter breakdown in the stream system. The soil system of Silviculture, Forest, and Grassland with riparian vegetation land covers showed high k values due to the high moisture and litter stock on riparian soil. Only a minor difference between stream and soil systems highlights the significant changes and the negative effects of silviculture on subtropical riparian zones.