Organochemical Characterization of Peat Reveals Decomposition of Specific Hemicellulose Structures as the Main Cause of Organic Matter Loss in the Acrotelm

Summary

N, and carbon and nitrogen content did not correlate with specific hemicellulose structures but reflected changes in total carbohydrates. Our analysis provides novel insights into peat carbohydrate decomposition and indicates substantial organic matter losses in the acrotelm due to the degradation of specific hemicellulose structures. This suggests that variations in hemicellulose content and structure influence peat stability, which may have important implications with respect to climate change.