Does protection of desert tortoise habitat generate other ecological benefits in the Mojave Desert?

Abstract

This paper summarizes the ecological effects of fenced habitat protection for the desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) at the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area in the Mojave Desert. The following were higher inside than outside the natural area: (1) annual and perennial plant biomass, cover, diversity and dominance by natives, (2) soil seed biomass, (3) nocturnal rodent density and diversity, (4) breeding bird abundance and species richness, and (5) lizard abundance and species richness. The following were higher outside the natural area: (1) biomass of alien annual plants, and (2) abundance of black-tailed hares (Lepus californicus). Protection of habitat for the desert tortoise has resulted in higher abundance and diversity of many types of native plants and animals at this site.

Parent Publication

• Wilderness science in a time of change conference-Volume 3: Wilderness as a place for scientific inquiry; 1999 May 23-27; Missoula, MT

Citation

Brooks, Matthew L. 2000. Does protection of desert tortoise habitat generate other ecological benefits in the Mojave Desert?. In: McCool, Stephen F.; Cole, David N.; Borrie, William T.; O’Loughlin, Jennifer, comps. 2000. Wilderness science in a time of change conference—Volume 3: Wilderness as a place for scientific inquiry; 1999 May 23–27; Missoula, MT. Proceedings RMRS-P-15-VOL-3. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 68-73