Using leaf biomechanical traits to understand the leaf-litter decomposition process

Using leaf biomechanical traits to understand the leaf-litter decomposition process

Hang Wang, Southwest Forestry University, discusses his article: Leaf biomechanical traits predict litter decomposability As ecologists, we often focus on how plants grow, reproduce, and interact with their environment. However, what happens after a plant has lived its life? More specifically, how do leaves breakdown after they fall to the ground? This process, known as…