Mass Loss Rates and Nutrient Dynamics of Decomposing Fine Roots in a Sawtooth Oak and a Korean Pine Stands

Fine root decomposition and nutrient release patterns were examined using in situ buried fine root (< 2mm in diameter) bags inserted vertically into the mineral soil to a depth of the top 15 cm in a sawtooth oak (Quercus acutissima) and a Korean pine (Pinus korainesis) stands in the Jungbu Forest Experiment Station, Kyonggi-do, Korea. The pine roots compared with the oak roots showed rapid mass loss in early stages of decomposition, but decomposed similarly after 12 months of incubation. Decomposition rates of fine roots were about 33%/yr for the oak roots and 37%/yr for the pine roots. Nutrients except for calcium and phosphorus showed similar concentrations between the oak and the pine roots during the study period. However, calcium concentration was significantly higher in the oak than in the pine roots. Nutrient concentrations in both stands except for nitrogen decreased during the study period. In addition, potassium compared with other nutrients was the most mobile ion and about 70% of initial amount was released during the first 3 months of incubation. The results indicate that tree species influence mass loss and nutrient dynamics of fine roots on similar site conditions.