Nutrient dynamics in litter mixtures of four Mediterranean maquis species decomposing in situ

► Litter mixtures of the same functional group have synergistic effects on mass loss. ► Litter mixtures of different functional groups have antagonistic effects on mass loss. ► All mixtures have synergistic effects on N immobilization and improve N conservation in the system. ► Quercus mixtures avoid Mn losses into the surrounding soil. ► Cistus litter is a Mn sink but in mixture lignin loss is not enhanced likely due to allelopathic effects.