Monthly changes of collembolan population under the gradients of moisture, organic carbon and nitrogen contents in a sub-tropical forest soil, Manipur.

Abstract

Population study of collembola for one calendar year was made in relation with moisture, organic carbon and nitrogen contents of a sub-tropical forest floor upto 0-10 cm. soil layer. Soil moisture content played important role and developed a significant correlation (p>0.01) with the monthly population density of collembola. With increase carbon and nitrogen contents also observe increase population density indicating collembola’s active participation in the release of these two nutrients from litter through decomposition and its incorporation in soil fertility.