Litter Decomposition in Wet Rubber and Fruit Agroforests: Below the Threshold for Tropical Peat Formation

Peatlands are shaped by slow litter decomposition, but threshold decomposition rates that allow peat formation remain unclear. Can agroforestry in the tropics be compatible with paludiculture allows formation? We explored determinants of wet agroforests adjacent to tropical peatlands Central Kalimantan (Indonesia) litterbag studies (up 16 weeks) standing sources estimate rate constants, characterize quality (especially lignin (L), polyphenolics (Pp) and nitrogen (N)), monitor temperature groundwater levels. In transfer experiments we tested for home-field advantage (HFA) effects between land cover types. Mean residence times around 85 weeks at 27 °C were associated a high (L + Pp)/N ratio. However, crossover treatments, mean varied from 30 180 strong HFA 80% faster “home”) found when other was old fruit-based agroforests. indicates local decomposer community well-adapted its normal diet. Litter two years below apparent threshold. Maintaining agroforest conditions domes supports peatland rewetting restoration does not contribute on-site processes.