Ecological stoichiometry characteristics of ecosystem carbon,nitrogen and phosphorus elements

Ecosystem element balance has been a main focus of global change ecology and biogeochemical cycle research.This paper first introduces progresses in ecological stoichiometry and carbon,nitrogen and phosphorus cycles.Then application of C∶N∶P stoichiometry in nutrient limitation,biogeochemical cycle,forest succession and degraded land is reviewed,especially in the fields of distribution characteristics,indication role,effect on carbon sequestration and human activity influence on soil C∶N∶P ratio.We also discuss future research directions in ecological stoichiometry.The development of ecological stoichiometry theory and research method can help us better understand nutrient controlling factors of plant-litter-soil interaction.It is more important to reveal interaction among carbon,nitrogen and phosphorus in order to provide insight and theoretial foundation for alleviation of greenhouse effects.