| Title | Effects of grazing, shrub removal, and drought on Chihuahuan Desert rodent communities |
| Publication Type | Conference Paper |
| Year of Publication | 1997 |
| Authors | Alkon P.U., Whitford WG |
| Conference Name | International Symposium and Workshop: Combating Desertification: Connecting Science with Community Action |
| Date Published | May 12-16, 1997 |
| Conference Location | Tucson, AZ |
| Abstract | Responses of rodent populations to grazing, drought, and shrub removal were studied in a replicated, block design experiment in a Chihuahuan Desert grassland which has been invaded by mesquite, Prosopis glandulosa, (early stage desertification). We sampled rodent populations two times each year for 4 consecutive years. Shrub removal, drought, and grazing affected species composition and abundance of rodents. Some species responded to changes in structural components of the ecosystem. (Presence or absence of shrubs and other species were responsive to cattle grazing, drought, or both). Data from the experimental study are compared with rodent community data from a series of sites representing a desertification continuum. This study provides empirical evidence for the usefulness of rodents as indicators of biodiversity values in desertification. |
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Science-based management strategies for sustainability of agriculture and other land uses
