Material Cycle of Forest Ecosystems

Dear Colleagues,

In an ecosystem, there are microorganisms such as fungi, mushrooms, and bacteria that live by using the energy contained in the carcasses of plants or animals or their waste. They are called ‘decomposers’. The decomposition products of organic substances produced by decomposers include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, and calcium, which are essential for constructing the body of green plants that are producers, or for life activities. They contain various inorganic substances such as Ca and Fe. As inorganic substances move through the food chain, they are finally absorbed and used by plants through the action of decomposers, thereby circulating between living and non-living things. The material cycle process causes effects of self-fertilization in forests and is present in various environments. However, we are facing novel conditions at the local or regional scales, which are likely to be translated into new qualities of forest ecosystems. The driving mechanisms that are already occurring and expected to control future forests need to be better understood. We encourage studies from all fields including experimental studies, monitoring approaches, and models to contribute to this Special Issue in order to promote knowledge and adaptation strategies for the preservation, management, and future development of forest ecosystems.

Prof. Dr. Hyun-Jun Kim
Guest Editor

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