Temperature sensitivity of plant litter decomposition rate in China's forests

The decomposition of litter from forest tree species is a fundamental process in the carbon (C) cycle terrestrial ecosystems and closely related to ongoing climate change. However, spatial distribution rate (k) its potential response changing air temperature (temperature sensitivity) remain poorly understood. Here, we estimated pattern plant k values China by performing random model based on 433 standardized 124 published studies. Nine predictors, including climate-related factors, vegetation characteristics, soil physical chemical were considered model. results extrapolation indicated that average value for China's forests was 0.53, mean annual (MAT) most important factor. We also mapped sensitivity (Q10) using moving window method. found Q10 had considerable variation (from 0.05 11.68, 95% confidence interval, CI) across types regions. lower warmer regions (primarily sub-tropical evergreen forests) higher semi-humid temperate deciduous boreal Larix than those other China. broadleaved coniferous forests. These suggest will decline under global warming. Changing patterns precipitation affect not only but sensitivity.