Uptake, Accumulation, And Loss Of Nutrients By Papyrus In Tropical Swamps

Abstract

Abstract. Analysis of papyrus (Cyperus papyrus L.) indicated that N, P, and K are generally found in higher concentrations in juvenile stems while Ca, Mg, Fe, and Mn are found in higher concentrations in mature stems. Iron was found to be concentrated in the roots, while Mn was concentrated in old umbels. Silicate content increased with age. Potassium and Na were easily eluted and leached from stems, while other nutrients required more time. Over 50% of all eight elements are accumulated prior to the attainment of 50% of the biomass. The total amount of nutrients taken up and accumulated by papyrus (per M2) is higher than most other macrophytes, and this seems to be due to the high biomass of this aquatic sedge. Estimates of losses due to elution, rain, and decomposition accounted for approximately two-thirds of the total nutrient accumulated. The remainder is assumed to be deposited in the swamp as peat.