Vegetation and community changes of elm (Ulmus pumila) woodlands in Northeastern China in 1983–2011

• DOI: 10.1007/s11769-013-0607-8
• Publication Date: 2013-05-03T04:06:17Z
• Authors: Li Liu; He Wang; Changcun Lin; Deli Wang
• Keywords: Understory

Elm (Ulmus pumila), widely distributed in the north temperate zone, contributes to a special savanna-like woodland typical grassland region northeastern China. This performs variety of ecological functions and environmental significance, such as decreasing soil erosion, stabilizing sand dunes, preserving species diversity. However, last approximate 30 years, composition, productivity distribution area elm has decreased severely. A series studies have been carried out find whether climate changes or human disturbances caused degradation how these factors affected woodland. In this study, undisturbed, plowing grazing were investigated 1983 2011 by using Point-Centered Quarter method. The relationship between vegetation was analyzed Bray-Curtis ordination. results show that 2011, diversity understory undisturbed decrease slightly compared those 1983. nearly 60% is lost relative Interestingly, stimulates growth certain through furrowing accelerating nutrient turnover rate. Grazing disturbance not only leads loss decrease, but also induces (small, short twisted). mean age 29 ± 2 yr woodland, while 15 ordination analysis all sample stands clustered three groups: Group I including 83UE (undisturbed 1983) 11UE 2011); II PE (elm disturbed plowing); III samples GE grazing). indicate long time converted different community types. Climate change primary reason causing disturbance. Both composition further decreases inhibits tree. Therefore, we suggest reasonable exclusive would be favorable for future regeneration degraded