Douglas fir impact on the dynamics and composition of humus in the soil of indigenous beech forest in western Serbia

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of organic matter from Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) on the amount and composition of humus in acid brown soil in a climatoregional beech forest (Fagetum moesiacae montanum B. Jov. 1967 s.l.) on Mt. Maljen. To accomplish this objective, we performed a one-year litterbag decomposition experiment with litterfall from Fagus moesiaca and Pseudotsuga menziesii. The quantitative and qualitative content of humus and the intensity of the decomposition process of organic mat?ter from beech and Douglas fir were analysed. Less humus was found during the experiment under Douglas fir than under autochthonous beech at the control site, as well as a decreasing trend for humus levels and quality (unfavourable chemical composition). It was concluded that these changes, caused by the effects of the clearcutting of beech and, in the future, of Douglas fir, and the slower decomposition of organic matter from Douglas fir will contribute to further degradation of the beech habitat on Mt. Maljen in terms of productivity.