Population of Humic Acid Degrading Microorganisms in Andosols under Different Vegetation Types and Grassland Management Regimens

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To examine the effect of vegetation type and grassland management regimen on the distribution of humus-degrading microorganisms, populations of humic acid-degrading (HAD) bacteria and fungi at three Andosol sites were investigated using the dilution plate method. Each site had three different vegetation types (Eulalia grassland, bamboo grassland, and coniferous plantations). Among the six grassland sites, two were maintained by burning and the others by cutting. HAD microorganisms were found in all soil samples. Low densities and small percentages of HAD bacteria were detected with no significant differences in the number of bacteria found between different vegetation types and grasslands managed in different ways. In contrast, the densities and percentages of HAD fungi differed according to vegetation type and management regimen. Specifically, the percentages of HAD fungi were significantly higher for burned grasslands. At burned sites, the numbers and percentages of HAD bacteria remained at a consistently low level, and no distinct seasonal changes were observed. In contrast, marked seasonal fluctuations in HAD fungi were detected. The percentages of these fungi remained relatively high between April and December. These fluctuations are likely due to the effects of burning on soil microorganisms.