Shrub-mediated “fertile island” effects in arid and semi-arid grassland

doi:10.11686/cyxb20150423

Abstract

Abstract: Shrubs can change the local ecological environment, which in turn impacts on the surrounding plant biomass, plant composition, plant chemical composition, and macro- and micronutrient elements in the nearby soil. Shrubs can change the local micro-environment in ways which affect the spatial distribution and circulation of nutrients, and may concentrate nutrients under the shrub canopy or enhance moisture retention. Such patches displaying enhanced moisture and nutrient retention and shade effects relative to the surrounding space are known as the shrub fertile islands. Here we discuss the ecological impact of shrubs in natural arid and semi-arid grassland areas and their role in the desert grassland restoration process, reduction of soil erosion and associated grassland productivity decline. The importance of shrubs and their ecological significance for vegetation succession and restoration and reconstruction is discussed, and a theoretical basis for prevention and control of land degradation in ecologically fragile regions is provided.

QU Wang-Long, YANG Xiao-Peng, ZHANG Cun-Tao, WEI Bing. Shrub-mediated “fertile island” effects in arid and semi-arid grassland[J]. Acta Prataculturae Sinica, 2015, 24(4): 201-207.

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