ABSTRACT

 This study delves into the intricate dynamics of leaf litter decomposition, leaf litter disappearance, leaf nutrient content, and soil characteristics within a tree-based ecosystem, focusing on the indigenous tree species Garcinia mannii, Irvingia gabonensis, and Afzelia africana. The research investigates the distinctive patterns in leaf decomposition and nutrient release, shedding light on their impact on soil properties and nutrient cycling. Results reveal significant variability in decomposition rates, with Afzelia africana displaying a consistent and substantial increase over a 14-week period, with decomposition rates ranging from 21.13% to 80.00%. hr contrast, Garcinia mannii exhibits fluctuating decomposition, commencing at 12.73% and culminating at 66.33%. Irvingia gabonensis demonstrates the fastest decomposition rate, starting at 32.73% and reaching 63.50% at the end of the study period. Leaf disappearance rates also exhibit disparities, with Irvingia gabonensis leading in mean disappearance rate at 2.09%, followed by Garcinia mannii at 1.01%, and Afzelia africana at 0.73%. Analysis of leaf nutrient content underscores the varying contributions of these species, with Afzelia africana exhibiting the highest total nitrogen content at 93.43% within a range of 6.50%. It also demonstrates a mean organic matter content of 54.50%. Garcinia mannii, although showing a moderate mean total nitrogen content at 54.50%, displays significant variability in total nitrogen with a range of 6.50%. Irvingia gabonensis has the lowest mean total nitrogen content at 44.57% with a wide range of 179.50% and an organic matter content of 48.50%. Regarding available potassium. Irvingia gabonensis exhibits the highest mean at 144.50%, albeit with a notable outlier ranging from 64.00% to 517.00%. Afzelia africana has the second-highest mean available potassium content at 73.50%, with a range from 45.00% to 98.00%. Garcinia mannii shows the lowest mean available potassium content at 42.57%, with a range of 27.00% to 65.50%. Soil characteristics analysis highlights the indigenous tree species' roles in soil enrichment, with Afzelia africana strongly contributing to soil fertility within a range of 42.00% to 98.00%. Garcinia mannii and Irvingia gabonensis have significant yet distinct impacts on soil properties