Litter decomposition in created and reference wetlands in West Virginia, USA

Abstract

Large amounts of resources have gone into wetland mitigation in recent years; however, it is still unclear whether wetland function is being replaced along with wetland area. Litter decomposition is linked to numerous wetland functions. In this study, we measured plant litter decomposition potential over 12 months in 8 created and 8 reference wetlands located in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, USA. Broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia L.) litter bags were placed in each wetland and collected at 3 month intervals. Linear decomposition rate constants and percent mass remaining were similar between wetland types (created and reference) and among Cowardin classifications (palustrine: unconsolidated bottom, aquatic bed, emergent, and scrub/shrub). Created wetland age was not correlated with decomposition potential. Our study found that created wetlands had similar litter decomposition potential as reference wetlands indicating that similar processes are likely acting upon litter decomposition within both natural and created wetlands.