Faculty Advisor
Dr. Christie Klimas
Abstract
Decomposition is an essential ecosystem service in which microorganisms breakdown organic matter. This process improves soil health and acts as a vital step in global carbon cycles. In this study, we examined decomposition rates and associated soil properties in turf and forest habitats across summer and fall seasons in order to determine how land management practices and climate change may be altering local decomposition regimes. Our study determined that there was a statistically significant difference between decomposition rates in turf and forest ecosystems (P=0.003) and a significant difference in decomposition rate across season (P
Recommended Citation
Shirmer, Amanda
(2024)
"A Seasonal Decomposition Comparison between Forest and Turf Habitats: Implications for Climate Change,"
DePaul Discoveries: Volume 13, Article 12.
Available at:
https://via.library.depaul.edu/depaul-disc/vol13/iss1/12
Included in
Climate Commons, Forest Biology Commons, Natural Resources Management and Policy Commons, Other Environmental Sciences Commons, Soil Science Commons