Short-Term Influence of Tank Tracks on Vegetation and Microphytic Crusts in Shrubsteppe Habitat |
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Authors: | Stephen E Watts |
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Institution: | (1) School of Natural Resources The Ohio State University 2021 Coffey Road Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA , US |
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Abstract: | Artemisia tridentata Nutt.) habitat within the Idaho Army National Guard Orchard Training Area in southwestern Idaho. The purpose of this study
was to determine the short-term (1–2 years) influence of tank tracks on vegetation and microphytic crusts in shrubsteppe habitat.
The two types of tank tracks studied were divots (area where one track has been stopped or slowed to make a sharp turn) and
straight-line tracks. Divots generally had a stronger influence on vegetation and microphytic crusts than did straight-line
tracks. Tank tracks increased cover of bare ground, litter, and exotic annuals, and reduced cover of vegetation, perennial
native grasses, sagebrush, and microphytic crusts. Increased bare ground and reduced cover of vegetation and microphytic crusts
caused by tank tracks increase the potential for soil erosion and may reduce ecosystem productivity. Reduced sagebrush cover
caused by tank tracks may reduce habitat quality for rodents. Tank tracks may also facilitate the invasion of exotic annuals
into sagebrush habitat, increasing the potential for wildfire and subsequent habitat degradation. Thus, creation of divots
and movement through sagebrush habitat by tanks should be minimized. |
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Keywords: | : Divots Fire history Idaho Military Sagebrush Straight-line tracks |
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