Decomposition of Carex and Equisetum in a Northern Swedish Lake: Dry Weight Loss and Colonization by Macro-Invertebrates

Abstract

(1) The dry-weight loss from Carex rostrata and Equisetumfluviatile litter enclosed in large-mesh litter bags was studied in a northern Swedish lake. (2) Equisetum litter decomposed faster than did Carex litter. After 5 months of submergence 50-60% of the Carex litter remained, compared with c. 30%. of the Equisetum. (3) Decomposition of both litter types was faster in the Carex belt than in the Equisetum belt, and more benthic macro-invertebrates, on a wet-weight basis, were present in the bags submerged in the Carex belt than in those in the Equisetum belt. (4) In the bags of Carex and Equisetum litter located within the respective plant belts, however, more animals occurred in the Carex litter bags than in the Equisetum ones. The population difference (animal wet-weight basis) was greater between different plant belts than between litters of different plants. (5) The practical application of these results in wetland management, mainly for dabbling ducks, is discussed.