Net Primary Production, Decomposition and Export of Spartina Anglica on a Suffolk Salt-Marsh

Abstract

SUMMARY (3) The rate of decomposition of standing dead S. anglica was estimated using litter bags of differing mesh size, and two differing methods of data analysis were compared. Results obtained using either method were in reasonable agreement. A loss of dead material equivalent to 29-32% of ANPPS per year was estimated due to microbes and micro-fauna, with an additional loss of -3% ANPPS yr-' due to meio-fauna. (4) Approximately 15-20% yr-' of ANPPs was exported from the site of production as particulate matter; of this, 70% entered the estuary and the remainder was removed to the strandline.