Consistent effects of eastern subterranean termites (Reticulitermes flavipes) on properties of a temperate forest soil

摘要: Abstract Termites inhabit a large portion of land covered by temperate forests. Climate warming and urbanization will likely extend their range increase densities in these ecosystems but, compared to tropical counterparts, little is known about effects on soil properties processes. If termites have the strong ecosystem engineering termites, then knowledge ecology impacts be vital for predicting how systems respond environmental change. We investigated feeding tunneling eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes , affected wood decomposition under decaying wood. Twelve laboratory microcosms filled with mineral blocks four common tree species, received R. flavipes soldiers workers at field densities, an additional five termite-free serving as controls. After 25 weeks, mass loss, carbon nitrogen dynamics, differed across yet were consistent regardless type. Microbially-available was 20% higher moisture content lower. Soil pH more acid microbial biomass positive but non-significant. These responses suggesting that termite are dictated largely activity within matrix not rate specific substrates. results among first quantify forest properties, demonstrating potential shape biogeochemical cycling plant communities through alteration environment.