Leaf litter

Leaf litter is the layer of fallen leaves and other dead plant material accumulating on soil. Its decomposition returns nutrients to ecosystems and creates habitat for many organisms.

Decomposition: The breakdown of dead organic matter into simpler substances by physical, chemical, and biological processes. Fungi, bacteria, and detritivores break litter down and release nutrients.
Soil erosion: The removal of soil by water, wind, ice, or gravity. A litter layer cushions raindrops and slows surface runoff.
Lignin: A complex aromatic polymer that strengthens the cell walls of many plants. Lignin-rich tissues resist decay and can slow the breakdown of leaves.
Temperate deciduous forest: A forest biome in temperate regions where many trees shed their leaves seasonally. Seasonal leaf fall produces a pronounced annual pulse of litter.
Detritivore: An organism that obtains energy by eating dead organic material and associated microbes. Detritivores fragment leaves, increasing the surface available for microbial decay.
Wildfire: An uncontrolled fire that burns vegetation and other combustible material in a natural area. Dry litter can provide fuel that helps surface fires spread.
Cellulose: A structural polysaccharide that forms a major component of plant cell walls. Microbes break down leaf cellulose as a source of carbon and energy.
Boreal forest: A high-latitude forest biome dominated by cold-tolerant conifers and other hardy trees. Cold conditions and often acidic litter can contribute to slow decomposition.
Saprotrophic nutrition: A mode of nutrition in which organisms digest dead organic matter externally and absorb the resulting compounds. Fungi and bacteria use this process to obtain energy and nutrients from litter.
Prescribed burn: A deliberately set and controlled fire used to meet land-management objectives. Managers sometimes burn accumulated litter to reduce fuels or maintain fire-adapted habitats.

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