Litterdominated

Litterdominated is a term used in ecology to describe ecosystems, habitats, or states in which the surface litter layer—composed primarily of dead plant material such as fallen leaves, twigs, and husks—acts as the dominant reservoir of organic carbon and primary energy source for the detrital food web. In such systems, the litter layer often exerts greater influence on energy flow and nutrient cycling than living biomass; the soil beneath may be relatively insulated from direct photosynthate fluxes. The term is commonly applied to forest floors but can apply to other detritus-rich habitats.

Key characteristics of litterdominated systems include a thick, stratified litter layer, slow decomposition, and a microclimate moderated by insulating litter. Detritivores and decomposers such as fungi, invertebrates, and microbes are abundant. Nutrient cycling is driven by litter mineralization and turnover rates depend on litter quality (chemical composition, lignin content) and environmental conditions like moisture and temperature. Carbon storage is concentrated in the litter layer and in soil organic matter, and energy flow is detritus-based rather than strictly based on live plant production.

Formation and dynamics: climate, litter input rate, and litter quality determine litterdomination. Disturbances, such as fire, windthrow, or management practices that alter litter input or removal, can shift systems toward or away from litterdominated states. Over time, a very developed litter layer may decompose and integrate with the mineral soil, whereas heavy inputs and cool, damp conditions favor persistence of the litter layer.

Ecological significance: litterdominated systems influence soil formation, carbon storage, and biodiversity by providing specialized habitats for detritivores and fungi, shaping seedling establishment, and affecting resilience to drought and erosion. Researchers may assess litter depth, moisture, and decomposition rates to characterize the state of such ecosystems.