What is the primary characteristic of ground duff?

The primary characteristic of ground duff is partly decomposed organic material. Ground duff refers to the layer of decomposing leaves, needles, and other organic matter located on the forest floor. This layer plays a crucial role in ecosystems as it contributes to soil fertility and moisture retention. The decomposition process allows nutrients to be released into the soil, supporting plant growth and providing a habitat for various organisms.

In contrast, freshly cut timber, fresh leaves, and dense underbrush do not reflect the definition of ground duff. Freshly cut timber typically pertains to logs or branches that have recently been severed from trees and have not yet begun to decompose. Fresh leaves refer to newly fallen foliage that has not yet broken down into the organic matter characteristic of duff. Dense underbrush describes thick vegetation, but it does not specifically refer to the decomposing material layer critical to understanding ground duff.