Abstract:
This study addressed the effect of the dwarf shrub Sarcopoterium spinosum on soil properties, soil moisture
and vegetation characteristics (plant density and richness) in a semi-arid ecosystem. Vegetation characteristics
and soil sample data were obtained from three areas: 1) beneath the S. spinosum patch, 2) between the
patches and 3) from the open area. The results showed that the area beneath S. spinosum had significantly
higher soil moisture content, organic matter, available ammonium, nitrate, and phosphorus compared to
the areas between shrubs and open areas. The results also showed that the total plant density and richness
decreased significantly beneath the shrub canopy compared to the areas between shrubs and open areas. Certain
plant species are found only beneath the shrub canopy. Our results indicated that S. spinosum creates
habitat heterogeneity by modifying the area beneath its canopy and influencing the community structure. Interactions
and the mechanisms of interactions between S. spinosum and other annual plants play an important
role in determining community structure and affecting the distribution of plant species beneath and
around the shrub canopy. Thus, understanding such interactions and understanding their mechanisms are
important issues that should be considered for rangeland management and conservation.
