n this study, the dead organic matter in various stages of decomposition
and resting on top of the mineral soil (leaf and weed
residues, twigs and 1–3 cm diameter branches, fruits and bark) was
considered litter according with IPCC guidance on C pools (IPCC,
2006). At the end of the CO2 measurement period (December 2010)
but before autumn leaf fall, three randomly chosen 1 m×1 m areas
were used in both Amng and Lmng block to determine the litter carbon
storage lying on the surface of the mineral topsoil. All organic
matter within each area was collected and washed through a series
of sieves to remove all adhering soil particles before being dried for
C and minerals determinations.