Decomposition Dynamics of Magnolia and Machilus Leaf Litter in Agroforestry Systems in Bhutan
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: To address the knowledge gaps in nutrient cycling under high‐altitude montane climates, this study evaluated leaf litter decomposition of Magnolia cathcartii , Machilus edulis , Magnolia champaca , and Magnolia doltsopa in an agroforestry system at Darla, Chukha district, Bhutan. We hypothesized that decomposition rates would be primarily dependent on climatic factors rather than species identity, and the presence of leathery leaf traits would result in slow leaf decomposition. A litterbag experiment was conducted using a randomized design. The litterbags were incubated 2‐3 cm below the soil surface. This shallow burial depth for incubation was to simulate the litter incorporated into the soil under agroforestry management. A total of 144 samples were retrieved over 416 days at predetermined intervals. Average weight loss ranged from 52.69% to 63.37%. The daily decomposition rate constants ( k ) varied from 0.0027 to 0.0033 day −1 (approximately 0.99–1.2 year −1 ). Although differences in decomposition among species were observed, analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed no significant interspecific variation ( p = 0.750), suggesting climatic factors had a stronger influence than species‐level differences. These results indicate that litters from Magnolia and Machilus act as a gradual‐release nutrient source in Bhutanese agroforestry systems. This influences nutrient timing and soil fertility mediated by soil fauna.
DOI: 10.1155/ijfr/3992541
Authors: Sangay Dorjee, Karma Orong
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $860
OpenAlex ID: W7147237039