Litter Fall and Litter Breakdown in Miombo

Abstract

Reports a 5-year study in the Brachystegia [spiciformis]/Julbernardia paniculata deciduous woodland at Luiswishi and Kasapa [cf. FA 31, 6115], SE Zaire, in 1968-72. The production and decomposition of the litter were analysed monthly into leaves, fruit and wood. The results are combined in a tabular comparison with other African forest types. The mean litter production was 4.3 t/year from the tree and shrub layer. Nearly all the production of herbaceous matter (3.2 t/year) was destroyed by fire. Termites played an important part in the breakdown of leaves (showing strong preferences for certain species) and woody fruits. Data are included on the fruit and seed production of 9 species, and on the b.a. increment (by g.b.h. classes) on one 1/8-ha plot at Kasapa: the c.a.i. was 2.9% on an initial b.a. of 13.3 m2/ha.