Data from: Decomposition of biocrust lichens and mosses contributes to soil nutrient cycling

Biocrusts are major contributors to dryland nutrient cycling by regulating C, N and P inputs and fluxes. However, our understanding about how biocrusts contribute to soil fertility and functioning in drylands via decomposition is virtually unknown. We conducted a microcosm experiment to: i) evaluate the litter decomposition dynamics of two common biocrust-forming species with contrasting tissue chemistry and growth form (the lichen <i>Cladonia foliacea</i> and the moss <i>Syntrichia caninervis</i>), and ii) their effects on several soil variables related to soil fertility and functioning. <i>Cladonia</i> litter decomposed gradually with time (92% total mass loss after 342 days), while <i>Syntrichia</i> litter decomposed much faster (92% total mass loss after 62 days, with no further losses until the end of the experiment at 342 days). We observed species-specific effects of their litter on dissolved organic N (DON) regardless of collection time, while time changed effects on DON and pH regardless of the biocrust species considered. Overall, biocrust litter had a positive effect on SOC and . Our findings indicate that the decomposition of biocrust tissues can play an important role in dryland nutrient cycling.