The effects of canopy gaps on soil nutrient properties: a meta-analysis

Canopy gaps are a prevalent disturbance form in forest ecosystems that promote forest regeneration and succession by modifying the heterogeneity of the microenvironment. However, a significant knowledge gap exists in comprehending the global-scale impact of canopy gaps on soil nutrient properties, which is related to forest management and conservation tactics. In this study, 518 paired observations derived from 31 peer-reviewed articles were meta-analyzed to evaluate the overall response of soil nutrient properties to canopy gaps. The results showed that canopy gaps increased NO3−–N (+ 22.20