Dynamics of Phosphorus and Organic Matter during Leaf Decomposition in a Forest Stream

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Abstract
Leaf decomposition rates and changes in leaf P content during decomposition were followed for 1 yr at 6 sites in Bear Brook, a forest stream in New Hampshire [USA]. Experimental leaf packs consisted of 3 g each of sugar maple, yellow birch and beech leaves enclosed in 1 mm mesh bags. Leaf decay was slowest in sites where sediment deposition was high and most rapid in sites where sediment deposition was low. There was no correlation between decay rate and numbers or biomass of invertebrates. Leaf P content increased during decomposition, and the increase was greatest where sediment deposition was greatest. Organic matter losses from a stream can be partitioned into losses due to export downstream and losses due to biological processes. Estimates of biological loss rates obtained using a mass balance approach were slightly lower than estimates obtained using experimental leaf packs.