Evaluation of breakdown of C3 and C4 litterfall in river under different environmental conditions

Abstract

The particulate organic matter (POM) is the main energy source in stream ecosystems, which may be generated inside or outside the ecosystem. The production processes and decomposition are particularly important for nutrient cycling, affecting the relationships between biodiversity and its functions and properties. In Brazil, there is little information on the dynamics of organic matter in aquatic systems and the association of organic matter (OM) with riparian vegetation. Thus, the present study aims to evaluate the effects of factors that regulates decomposition of allochthonous organic matter in aquatic systems as well as the patterns of retention, accumulation of debris and nutrient cycling in three rivers located in different areas, two in a preserved forest area and one in pasture area.