Differences in native soil ecology associated with invasion of the exotic annual chenopod, Halgeton glomeratus
Various biotic and abiotic components of soil ecology differed significantly across an area whereHalogeton glomeratus is invading a native winterfat, [ Krascheninnikovia (= Ceratoides) lanata] community. Nutrient levels were significantly different among the native, ecotone, and exotic-derived soils. NO3, P, K, and Na all increased as the cover of halogeton increased. Only Ca was highest in the winterfat area. A principal components analysis, conducted separately for water-soluble and exchangeable cations, revealed clear separation between halogeton- and winterfat-derived soils. The diversity of soil bacteria was highest in the exotic, intermediate in the ecotone, and lowest in the native community. Although further studies are necessary, our results offer evidence that invasion by halogeton alters soil chemistry and soil ecology, possibly creating conditions that favor halogeton over native plants.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2003 |
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Title | Differences in native soil ecology associated with invasion of the exotic annual chenopod, Halgeton glomeratus |
DOI | 10.1007/s00374-003-0638-x |
Authors | Jeffrey J. Duda, D. Carl Freeman, John M. Emlen, Jayne Belnap, Stanley G. Kitchen, John C. Zak, Edward Sobek, Mary Tracy, James Montante |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Biology and Fertility of Soils |
Index ID | 70170582 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Western Fisheries Research Center |