Ectomycorrhizal fungal effects on soil carbon storage, root litter decomposition, and fungal necromass decomposition

This project investigates the impacts of ectomycorrhizal-saprotrophic fungal interactions on soil C storage and the decomposition of root litter and fungal necromass. Specifically, we conducted a field experiment wherein the ectomycorrhizal:saprotrophic fungal ratio was reduced via experimental trenching (with control plots left untrenched). From these plots we then measured bulk soil C stocks, particulate organic matter C stocks, mineral associated organic matter C stocks, and the decomposition of root litter and fungal necromass. The Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve (CCESR) experiment name is e309 "The effects of mycelial morphology and mycorrhizal type on fungal necromass decomposition."