Question

You have conducted an experiment using litterbags to assess the effect of lignin content on leaf decomposition rate. You selected 6 tree species with a range of leaf lignin levels. Which of the following is a plausible prediction for your study?

A. The biomass of leaf litter bags will increase more in plants with higher leaf lignin content.
B. The biomass of leaf litter in the bags will be greater in leaves with higher lignin content after the same length of time.
C. The leaf litter bags cannot be used to conduct this experiment.
D. The biomass of leaf litter in the bags will be lower in leaves with higher lignin content after the same length of time.

Answer 1

B. The biomass of leaf litter in the bags will be greater in leaves with higher lignin content after the same length of time.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lignin is a major, one of the most slowly decomposing components of dead vegetation, including leaf litters. The lignin content has been found to have a high correlation with litter decomposition.

Hence, at the end of the experiment, the litter bag containing leaf litters with higher lignin contents will be expected to weigh more than those with lower lignin contents.

The correct option is B.