Abstract
Nutrient loss from forest ecosystems by burning and leaching can be estimated by comparing nutrient stores before and after the disturbance, and by measuring the nutrient fluxes during disturbance. We applied both methods to a clear cutting experiment near Belem, Eastern Amazon, in a correct time series of 15 months duration. Nutrient flux measurements include wood export, loss to the atmosphere by burning, and leaching. The latter was based on water flux simulation with a soil water model, and on element analysis of soil water extracts (ceramic cup lysimeter). Two plots with 33 and 92 t ha−1 of residual biomass (left after export of wood >7 cm diameter) were compared with a forest control plot. Store and flux balances agreed well in case of Na, K, Mg, and S, and partially also for Ca and total P. Deviations seem to be caused by erratic but statistically not significant variations of the soil stores (mainly C and total N). Spacial variability of soil parameters demand very high sample replication, especially after disturbance. Flux measurements are better but more costly.
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