@mastersthesis {52102,
	title = {Nutrient cycling by the subterranean termite <i>Gnathamitermes tubiformans</i> on a desert bajada},
	year = {1980},
	note = {//NMSU//US-IBP//},
	month = {1980},
	pages = {68},
	school = {New Mexico State University},
	type = {M.S. Thesispp},
	address = {Las Cruces, New Mexico},
	abstract = {Termites fulfill a unique role among social insects in desert ecosystems because of their ability to utilize cellulose.  Their effect on nutrient cycles was examined.     Since the flux of nitrogen through termite colonies is greater than the amount present as termite biomass, this element "turns over" about 3 1/2 times annually in termite colonies.  The perennial shrub nitrogen "turns over" in 9.4 years, the litter in 2.8 years, and the annual forbs and grass component in 1 year.     Phosphorus "turns over" 2.5 times annually in termite colonies, in 12.6 years in perennial shrubs, 5.8 years in dead plant litter and in 1 year in annual forbs and grasses.     Sulfur "turns over" 2.5 times annually in termite colonies, in 13.0 years in perennial shrubs, 2.4 years in dead plant litter and in 1 year in annual forbs and grasses.},
	keywords = {decomposition, termites, dissertation, dissertations, Gnathamitermes,nutrient cycling, nutrient cycling, nitrogen, nutrient cycling, phosphorus, nutrient cycling, sulfur, nutrient cycling,termite, termite,nutrient cycling, theses, thesis},
	author = {Douglas Schaefer}
}
