| Summary: | The aim of the study was to evaluate the dynamics of organic matter and mineral components on the basis of botanical composition, peat species, and physical, chemical and biochemical properties in the acrotelm (0–50 cm) and catotelm (50–100 cm) of 19 Sphagnum- and Carex-dominated organic soils. The botanical composition and structure of 19 Baltic-type raised bog and fen sites in Poland and Siberia (Russia) were investigated. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used for the classification of 18 physical, chemical, biological and biochemical factors in the acrotelm (0–50 cm) and catotelm (50–100 cm). These factors affect the dynamics of organic matter transformation in Sphagnum- and Carex-dominated peat soils. The relative physical, chemical, biological and biochemical properties indicate that oxidation and polymerisation processes, along with the formation of resistant compounds and a lower rate of decomposition, are more prevalent in Sphagnum- than in Carex-dominated organic soils.
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