Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
11-2025
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Darlene Panvini
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Litterbags are used to study nutrient cycling and track the rate of decomposition over time. Decomposition rates may vary between plant species due to various factors. One factor includes the abundance of lignin, or a structural component that provides support to a plant, which can slow the rate of decomposition. This study compared the decomposition rate of sage (Salvia officinalis), which has higher lignin levels, and prickly pear (Opuntia humifusa), which has higher water content and thus lower lignin levels. Four samples of each species, with two replicates each, were initially weighed and then placed in their own litterbags. The four litterbags of the same species were connected with fishing line and staked to a green roof. One litterbag of each species was collected every 3 weeks for 12 weeks and placed in a drying oven after collection. After drying, litterbag contents were weighed and recorded. Results support slower decomposition for the sage plant due to its higher lignin content than the prickly pear. This method exemplifies a simple approach to measuring biotic conditions of decomposition and soil microbiology activity, and how they may differ depending on species present.
Recommended Citation
Jang, Curtis; Ly, Vy; Reagan, Ashlyn; Sebaugh, Ellie; and Panvini, Darlene, "Comparative Decomposition Rates of Prickly Pear and Sage Using Litterbags" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 285.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/285
Included in
Agriculture Commons, Biology Commons, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Commons, Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons, Plant Sciences Commons
