Life in interstitial space: Biocrusts inhibit exotic but not native plant establishment in semi-arid grasslands

Mandy L. Slate; Ragan M. Callaway; Dean E. Pearson

doi:10.1111/1365-2745.13117

Treesearch

Life in interstitial space: Biocrusts inhibit exotic but not native plant establishment in semi-arid grasslands

Formally Refereed

Authors:

Mandy L. Slate, Ragan M. Callaway, Dean E. Pearson

Year:

2019

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2745.13117

Source:

Journal of Ecology. 107: 1317-1327.

Download (PDF 993 KB)

Download (PDF 993 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/60732.pdf

Abstract

Exotic plant species commonly exploit disturbances more successfully than native plants. This outcome is widely attributed to the fact that disturbance reduces biotic resistance from native plant competitors. However, biocrusts, communities of mosses, lichens, and micro‐organisms, are a prominent component of semi‐arid grasslands occurring in the interstitial spaces between vascular plants. Biocrusts may provide an important source of biotic resistance to invaders, different from native plant competition, but poorly understood.

Keywords

biological soil crusts, biotic resistance, disturbance, establishment, exotic plants, germination, grasslands, invasion

Citation

Slate, Mandy L.; Callaway, Ragan M.; Pearson, Dean E. 2019. Life in interstitial space: Biocrusts inhibit exotic but not native plant establishment in semi-arid grasslands. Journal of Ecology. 107: 1317-1327.