Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
Fall 11-3-2026
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Darlene Panvini
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Shrub Density and Associated Microclimatic Impacts on Rates of Leaf Litter Decomposition
Evan Kraus | Ava Loth | Natasha Cudjoe | Darlene Panvini
Leaf litter decomposition is an important ecological process that contributes to nutrient cycling and soil health. Environmental factors, including vegetation density and moisture availability, may influence decomposition rates. This study investigated whether differences in shrub density affect leaf litter decomposition in chives. Two environmental conditions were compared: wet areas with higher shrub density and dry areas with lower shrub density. Each condition included two replicates, with four leaf litter bags attached to each string. A total of sixteen leaf litter bags were placed across four replicates to examine differences in decomposition between conditions. Decomposition rates were compared between wet and dry conditions to determine whether shrub density influenced leaf litter breakdown. The litter bags placed in the testing area with less dense shrubs and dryer soil, had less mass loss than the area with more shrub density and moist soil. The litter bags in the high-density shrub areas had more decomposition. The experiment aimed to determine whether higher shrub density promotes faster leaf litter decomposition compared to lower shrub density. Our results supported our hypothesis. This makes sense due to moisture being the most effective way of transportation for microbial growth and activity. Another explanation is that the high shrub density provides shade from solar radiation and cover from drying winds. Understanding how vegetation density influences decomposition can provide insight into nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning. These findings may help explain how differences in vegetation cover contribute to changes in decomposition processes and soil nutrient availability within terrestrial ecosystems over time.
Recommended Citation
Kraus, Evan N.; Cudjoe, Natasha; Loth, Ava; and Panvini, Darlene, "Shrub Density and Associated Microclimatic Impacts on Rates of Leaf Litter Decomposition" (2026). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 416.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/416
Included in
Agricultural and Resource Economics Commons, Animal Studies Commons, Bacteria Commons, Environmental Studies Commons, Plants Commons, Soil Science Commons
