Characterising Soil Ecological Stoichiometry in Different Vegetation in Southwest China Karst

Investigate the nutrient content and ecological stoichiometry of Karst soils in southwest China to provide scientific evidence for nutrient cycling among Karst ecosystem components. The results showed that the mean values of soil SOC, TN, and TP were 26.68 (g Kg-1), 2.34 (g Kg-1), and 0.13 (g Kg-1), respectively. The means for C:N, C:P, and N:P were 12.64, 211.56, and 18.78, respectively. Soil SMC, sand, and AN showed a highly significant positive correlation (P<0.01) with SOC and TN, while BD and clay showed a highly significant negative correlation (P<0.001) with SOC. TN content and storage were less influenced by vegetation type. Soil C:N values were relatively stable, while soil C:P and N:P values correlated with changes in SOC and TN. Soil carbon and nitrogen contents are higher under PF vegetation type than other vegetation types, so shrubs are more suitable for ecological restoration and environmental reconstruction in this area, and shrub vegetation type should be considered first for vegetation restoration in Karst areas in southwest China.