Effect of excluding shredders on leaf litter decomposition in two streams

Authors

James R. Barnes, Brigham Young University
J. V. McArthur, Brigham Young University
C. E. Cushing, Pacific Northwest Laboratory, Richland, Washington

Abstract

The effect of excluding shredders on leaf processing rates was studied in a Rocky Mountain stream in Utah and a cold desert stream in Washington. Experimentally excluding shredders significantly decreased the processing rate in both streams. Processing rates (k) were higher in the desert stream, and it is postulated that this is related to increased microbial activity due to the higher water temperatures.

Recommended Citation

Barnes, James R.; McArthur, J. V.; and Cushing, C. E. (1986) "Effect of excluding shredders on leaf litter decomposition in two streams," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 46: No. 2, Article 3.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol46/iss2/3