Concentrations and resorption patterns of 13 nutrients in different plant functional types in the karst region of south-western China

Nutrient resorption patterns in karst ecosystems vary significantly by element and plant functional type, revealing distinct strategies for nutrient retention and cycling. The study found that while phosphorus (P) emerged as the primary limiting nutrient for plant growth, four nutrients—nitrogen (N), P, potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg)—were resorbed during leaf senescence, with resorption efficiencies ranging from 13.2% to 63.2%. Conversely, seven nutrients, including calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), accumulated in senesced leaves, indicating their retention rather than resorption. These patterns strongly influenced litter quality and were linked to nutrient concentrations in green leaves, with N:P, N:K, and N:Mg ratios predicting resorption proficiency for specific nutrients. The findings underscore the complexity of plant nutrient use strategies in karst regions, providing new insights into biogeochemical cycling.

Liu, C., Liu, Y., Guo, K., Wang, S., & Yang, Y. (2014). Concentrations and resorption patterns of 13 nutrients in different plant functional types in the karst region of south-western China. Annals of Botany, 113(5), 873–885. https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcu005