Abstract
Ongoing increases in global levels of nitrogen (N) deposition are predicted to continue, causing important shifts in the structure and function of ecosystems worldwide. Soil microbes and enzymes are key components of biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem functioning, so understanding their response to N deposition is crucial. We studied the effects of N addition on the activities of five extracellular enzymes and microbial biomass and composition in a mesic Mediterranean holm oak forest characterized by moderate soil N- and P-limitation. Addition of N increased photosynthetic potential of higher plants, activities of P- and C-, but not N- related enzymes, and biomass of total microbes, bacteria and fungi, and decreased ratios of fungi:bacteria. Overall, N deposition increased general biological activity of the mesic Mediterranean forest, enhanced ecosystem investment in P mobilization and affected soil microbial community structure.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
