Overview
Since the publication of the 2nd edition, there have been substantial developments in the field of litter decomposition. This fully revised and updated 3rd edition of Plant Litter reflects and discusses new findings and re-evaluates earlier ones in light of recent research and with regard to current areas of investigation.\xa0 The availability of several long-term studies allows a more in-depth approach to decomposition patterns and to the later stages of decomposition, as well as to humus formation and accumulation. The latest information focuses on three fields: -\xa0the effects of manganese on decomposition and possibly on carbon sequestration, -\xa0new findings on decomposition dynamics, and- the new analytical technique using 13C-NMR.