Biomass, nutrient distribution, and net production in alpine communities of the Kluane Mountains, Yukon Territory, Canada

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Abstract
Biomass and nutrient distribution and aboveground net primary production were determined for two communities growing at 1600 m elevation and five communities growing at about 2000 m elevation in the alpine zone of the Kluane Ranges, Yukon Territory, Canada. Living biomass accumulations ranged from 183 to 1350 g/m2, whereas total organic matter accumulations ranged from 2126 to 51120 g/m2. Nutrient distribution in general reflected organic matter distribution. Highest nutrient concentrations were in leaves and fine roots. Aboveground net primary production ranged from 18.3 to 185.5 g/m2. Primary production appeared to be related most to moisture during the growing season and temperature regimes.