Root Litter Mixing with That of Japanese Cedar Altered CO2 Emissions from Moso Bamboo Forest Soil

Abstract

Research Highlights: This study examined the effect of mixing fine roots of Japanese cedar with moso bamboo on soil carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions with nitrogen (N) addition treatment. Background and Objectives: Moso bamboo expansion into adjacent forests and N deposition are common in subtropical China. The effects of litter input on soil CO₂ emissions, especially fine root litter input, are crucial to evaluate contribution of moso bamboo expansion on greenhouse gas emissions. Materials and Methods: An in situ study over 12 months was conducted to examine mixing fine roots of Japanese cedar with moso bamboo on soil CO₂ emissions with simulated N deposition. Results: Fine root litter input of Japanese cedar and moso bamboo both impacted soil CO₂ emission rates, with mixed litter, positively impact soil CO₂ emission rate with N addition treatment. Moso bamboo fine root litter input decreased the sensitivity of soil CO₂ emission rate to soil temperature. Conclusions: The encroachment of moso bamboo into adjacent forests might benefit soil C sequestration under warming climate, which will also benefit the mitigation of global climate change.