Data from: Coarse woody debris decomposition along an elevation gradient alleviates soil microbial P limitation but intensifies C limitation at Wuyishan National Park

Soil microorganisms play a vital role in biogeochemical cycles by
transforming plant residues into soil organic matter through catabolic
processes, thereby significantly influencing carbon (C) storage. Changes
in microbial metabolic limitations serve as important indicators of shifts
in resource availability and microbial survival strategies. Coarse woody
debris (CWD) decomposition is a stable source of C and nutrients. This
process significantly affects microbial metabolism and is influenced by
factors like nutrient availability, vegetation, and climate. However, the
effect of CWD decomposition on microbial metabolic limitations,
particularly across diverse environmental gradients, remains poorly
understood. Our study investigated the impact of different decay classes
of CWD on soil microbial metabolic limitation along an elevational
gradient in Wuyishan National Park. it examines changes in soil
properties, microbial metabolic limitation and enzyme activities during
CWD decomposition. We observed increased C limitation and decreased
phosphorus (P) limitation in soil microorganisms during CWD decomposition.
These trends showed consistent characteristics along the elevational
gradient, with soil microbial C limitation gradually increasing and P
limitation decreasing as elevation increased. This process was regulated
by soil pH and oxidase activity. Our study demonstrated that the presence
of CWD could modify the soil environment, allowing microorganisms to
adjust their nutrient acquisition strategies, a process that would
influence soil C turnover. In conclusion, resource constraints during CWD
decomposition induced microbial metabolic trade-offs, and shifts in these
trade-off strategies may influence soil C storage. This study offers new
insights into the interactions among plant residues, soil, and
microorganisms, thereby enhancing our understanding of soil C cycling in
the context of global climate change.