Loss of phosphorus (P) from forested ecosystems is usually small. In Japan, the input-output budget of P in forested watersheds has in many cases been shown to have larger inputs than outputs (Input > Output). However, it is possible that P budgets have been inadequately evaluated because output has mainly been calculated using the Periodic method, which ignores changes in P concentrations during storm events. This study sought to clarify the effect of the incorporation of changes in P concentrations during storm events in calculations of the output on the P budget. Stream water was sampled weekly, as well as sequentially at hourly intervals in each of 18 storm events in a small mountainous watershed of a plantation forest of Japanese cypress (
Chamaecyparis obtusa). Based on a four-year dataset, the Periodic and the ∑L-∑Q method, which considers changes in P concentrations during storm events, were compared. The result showed that output calculated by the ∑L-∑Q method was on average three times higher than that calculated by the Periodic method. Thus, in dry years, the Periodic method showed Input > Output whereas with the ∑L-∑Q method, Input < Output. Because of the strong affinity for P of soil particles, sediment transport usually causes large P losses during storm events. This results in rapidly increased P concentrations in a stream. Our results showed that the ∑L-∑Q method gave an accurate estimate of P output as it considered increased P concentrations in storm events.
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