Indirect effects of soil invertebrates on litter decomposition: Elaboration via analysis of a tundra model

Indirect effects of soil invertebrates on litter decomposition in arctic coastal tundra were examined by means of a cross control option in a linear carbon flow model. Systems analysis and simulated field experiments generated predictions about soil systems containing invertebrate effects as modeled. Fauna were found to be several times more important per gram than microflora in causing higher cycling efficiency and more even resource distribution within the model. Detritus enrichment decreased evennes of resource distribution without affecting cycling efficiency. Hypotheses were generated which, if supported by field data, would help confirm the rationale used in model construction.