Summary
The use of lime increased heat output and decreased the C:N ratio (global indicators of biological activity) in the organic horizons of a spruce forest (Picea abies L.) soil. These changes were still present after 18 years. During the same period, the muramic acid content increased slightly, while the concentration of both ergosterol and glucosamine decreases. The ratios of ergosterol or glucosamine to muramic acid decreased significantly after 3 years in the plots that had been irrigated and limed, and after 8 years in the limed non-irrigated plots.
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Zelles, L., Stepper, K. & Zsolnay, A. The effect of lime on microbial activity in spruce (Picea abies L.) forests. Biol Fertil Soils 9, 78–82 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00335866
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00335866