Table 2 Initial elemental content and chemical decomposition indicators across the root functional types before field exposure of Halimione portulacoides

From: Salt marsh litter decomposition varies more by litter type than by extent of sea-level inundation

 

C (%)

N (%)

C:N

δ13C (‰)

δ15N (‰)

Lig:PS

LigG:LigS

     

proxy

proxy

Fine absorptive roots

43.5

1.80

24.2

−25.7

6.3

2.09

1.07

Fine transportive roots

44.0

1.69

26.0

−26

4.8

1.32

1.61

Rhizomes

45.5

0.87

52.4

−25.6

8.1

0.68

2.66

Leaves

31.3

1.41

22.3

−25.3

10.3

n.a

n.a

  1. The data are based on triplicate analyses of each pooled sample of the litter type, which might have reduced the variability within each litter type and precluded firm conclusions about the results. C is the carbon concentration, N is the nitrogen concentration, LigG:LigS is the ratio of guaiacyl lignin on syringyl, and Lig:PS is the ratio of total lignin on polysaccharide calculated with the pyrolysis. All are expressed as the mean for LigG:LigS and Lig:PS only. Leaves had too little lignin, and therefore the LigG:LigS and Lig:PS ratio could not be calculated.
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