| Title | Nutrient cycling by the subterranean termite Gnathamitermes tubiformans on a desert bajada |
| Publication Type | Thesis |
| Year of Publication | 1980 |
| Authors | Schaefer D |
| Number of Pages | 68 |
| Date Published | 1980 |
| University | New Mexico State University |
| City | Las Cruces, New Mexico |
| Thesis Type | M.S. Thesispp |
| Call Number | 00284 |
| 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 |
| 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. |
Jornada
Science-based management strategies for sustainability of agriculture and other land uses
