Since the publication of the 2^nd edition, there have been substantial developments in the field of litter decomposition. This fully revised and updated 3^rd edition of Plant Litter reflects and discusses new findings and re-evaluates earlier ones in light of recent research and with regard to current areas of investigation.

The availability of several long-term studies allows a more in-depth approach to decomposition patterns and to the later stages of decomposition, as well as to humus formation and accumulation.

The latest information focuses on three fields:

- the effects of manganese on decomposition and possibly on carbon sequestration,

- new findings on decomposition dynamics, and

- the new analytical technique using ¹³C-NMR.

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