Data from: Decomposition of biocrust lichens and mosses contributes to soil nutrient cycling

Biocrusts are major contributors to dryland nutrient cycling by regulating C, N and P inputs and fluxes. However, our understanding about how biocrusts contribute to soil fertility and functioning in drylands via decomposition is virtually unknown. We conducted a microcosm experiment to: i) evaluate the litter decomposition dynamics of two common biocrust-forming species with contrasting tissue chemistry and growth form (the lichen Cladonia foliacea and the moss Syntrichia caninervis), and ii) their effects on several soil variables related to soil fertility and functioning. Cladonia litter decomposed gradually with time (92% total mass loss after 342 days), while Syntrichia litter decomposed much faster (92% total mass loss after 62 days, with no further losses until the end of the experiment at 342 days). We observed species-specific effects of their litter on dissolved organic N (DON) regardless of collection time, while time changed effects on DON and pH regardless of the biocrust species considered. Overall, biocrust litter had a positive effect on SOC and . Our findings indicate that the decomposition of biocrust tissues can play an important role in dryland nutrient cycling.