Comparison of elemental concentrations and decomposition characteristics of plant organic matters of Carpinus tschonoskii Maxim. in mountainous areas and urban green areas

Abstract

In order to clarify the changes in elemental concentrations and decomposition characteristics of plant organic matter in urban green areas, we investigated road area ratio, chemical characteristics in soil, elemental concentrations and decomposition rate of plant organic matter of Carpinus tschonoskii among urban green areas and mountainous areas. As a result, nitrogen (N) and manganese (Mn) concentrations of C. tschonoskii were increased in urban area. Consequently, the urban environment enhanced decomposition rates in early stage of decomposition process but inhibited then in latter stage. From the results, it seems that soil organic matter qualities were changed in urban green area.