Exogenous enzyme addition affects litter decomposition by altering the microbial community and litter nutrient content in planted forest

Abstract Litter inputs greatly impact the soil properties and ecosystem functioning in forests. Quick litter decomposition is promoted, which decreases planted forest agricultural waste and increases the nutrient cycle in forests. The breakdown of litter and the release of various components depend heavily on enzymes. However, the effects of exogenous enzyme preparations on litter decomposition have hardly ever been researched. In this study, we examine how these enzymes affect the remaining rate of litter quality, nutrient content( C, N, K ), and microbial community diversity. Taking artificial Eriobotrya japonica litter as the research object, applied five exogenous enzymes (laccase, lignin peroxidase, leucine arylamidase, cellulase, and acid phosphatase) to litter leaves. During the decomposition period, the mass remaining rate and main nutrient content of the litter were measured. After decomposition at constant temperature and humidity for 189 days, determine the microbial diversity attached to the surface of the litter. Laccase and lignin peroxidase increase litter degradation by affecting microbial diversity, nitrogen (N), and kalium (K) contents. Leucine arylamidase leads to an enrichment of N, which decreases the quality of the litter. The cellulose and lignin decomposition rate in litters was unaffected by the addition of cellulase, laccase, and lignin peroxidase. Our analysis emphasizes that exogenous enzymes may alter the nutrient content and microbial community, which may affect litter decomposition. To regulate the rate at which agricultural waste litter decomposes, it is imperative to investigate the effect and mechanism of exogenous enzymes on litter decomposition.