Title | Some effects of soil-moisture availability on above-ground production and reproductive allocation in Larrea tridentata (DC) Cov |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 1979 |
Authors | Cunningham GL, Syvertsen J.P, Reynolds J.F, Willson J.M |
Journal | Oecologia |
Volume | 40 |
Pagination | 113-123 |
Date Published | 1979 |
Call Number | 00490 |
Keywords | article, articles, journal, journals, Larrea, reproduction, Larrea, soil moisture, Larrea,productivity, plant,Larrea tridentata |
Abstract | Data from the US/IBP Desert Biome validation studies indicate that above-ground production and biomass allocated to reproduction in Larrea tridentata vary from one year to another depending upon the timing and extent soil-moisture availability. In an attempt to verify these observations and determine to what extent water availability can affect total above-ground production and reproductive allocation in this widely distributed warm desert shrub, a series of soil-moisture augmentation experiments were conducted. High levels of soil moisture had a greater effect on reproductive allocation than on total above-ground production. Enhanced soil moisture during the period of active growth increased total above-ground production and reduced the percentage of biomass allocated to reproduction. Enhanced soil moisture during the normal periods of little or no growth did not increase total above-ground production. |