Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - Introduction.- Chapter 2 - Decomposition as a process: Some main features.- Chapter 3 - Decomposer organisms.- Chapter 4 - Initial litter chemical composition.- Chapter 5 - Changes in substrate composition during decomposition.- Chapter 6 - Chemical constituents as rate regulating: Initial variation and changes during decomposition.- Chapter 7 - Climatic environment.- Chapter 8 - Decomposition of fine root and woody root litter.- Chapter 9 - Decomposition of woody litter and cones.- Chapter 10 - Models that describe litter decomposition and influences on decomposition patterns.- Chapter 11 - Influences on stable litter fractions and carbon sequestration in organic layers.- Chapter 12 - Carbon sequestration rates on a regional scale.