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Weathered leaf structure
When leaves fall, they undergo decomposition by fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates. Softer tissues are broken down first, while tougher structures such as the leaf veins (xylem and phloem) remain, creating delicate leaf skeletons.
This process is ecologically vital, as it returns nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon to the soil cycle, supporting soil fertility and the functioning of forest ecosystems.
Weathered leaf structure
When leaves fall, they undergo decomposition by fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates. Softer tissues are broken down first, while tougher structures such as the leaf veins (xylem and phloem) remain, creating delicate leaf skeletons.
This process is ecologically vital, as it returns nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon to the soil cycle, supporting soil fertility and the functioning of forest ecosystems.