Abstract

Leaf litter quality and quantity can influence soil nutrient dynamics and stream productivity through decomposition and serving as allochthonous stream inputs. Leaf deposition, nitrogen (N)-resorption efficiency and proficiency, and decomposition rates were analyzed in riparian stands of Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl. in southern Illinois for the first time to determine potential nutrient cycling from riparian canebrake restoration. Leaf litter was collected from five established canebrakes monthly over one year and a decomposition study was conducted over 72 weeks. Live leaves, freshly senesced leaves, and decomposed leaves were analyzed for carbon (C) and N content. Leaf litterfall biomass peaked in November at twice the monthly average for all but one site, indicating a resemblance to deciduous leaf fall patterns. Nitrogen and C concentrations decreased 48% and 30%, respectively, between live leaves and 72 weeks following decomposition. High soil moisture appeared to slow decomposition rates, perhaps due to the creation of anaerobic conditions. Cane leaves have low resorption proficiency and nutrient-use proficiency, suggesting that these riparian canebrakes are not N limited. Giant cane should be considered in multispecies riparian buffer creation since it has this potential to supply carbon and nitrogen to the soil and to macroinvertebrates in the streams for a longer period of time and year round.

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