5 Conclusion

This study revealed that litter mixing affected litter decomposition rate and litter nutrient release in both synergistic and antagonistic patterns. The decomposition rate of litter mixture was strongly related to the CWM of litter C, and the water nutrient contents were likely controlled by litter decomposition rate.
This study included only four species and three litter mixtures, but the four species are widely distributed in subtropical coasts. Our findings may be helpful in understanding the effect of plant composition on coastal ecosystem functioning. The mangrove species A. corniculatum and K. obovata living together would be beneficial to soil C accumulation and water purification due to slow litter decomposition.