Decomposition of Tectona grandis L. Leaf Litter in a Tropical Semi Moist Deciduous Forest of Gujarat, India

Chandan Kumar Jana

Abstract: The present study was conducted on leaf litter decomposition of Tectona grandis L. in a tropical semi moist deciduous forest of Gujarat. The monthly weight loss of leaf litter of T. grandis L. was carried out by nylon bag technique in the dang forest. The fast rate of decomposition was observed in the rainy season which was favorable climate for microbial activities. Decomposition constant (k) of leaf litter was 1.31 and turnover time required to decompose the residual litter was 323 days. Tectona grandis was found to be most suitable tree species for plantation programme in dry tropical regions as it has high litter deposition and decomposition rates and thus it has advantages in degraded soil restoration and sustainable land management.

Keywords: Tectona grandis, decomposition constant (k), Dang forest, turnover time and macro nutrients release