The authors of this study determined that pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae) were a keystone species in northern Arizona, that reduced the spread of aspen (Populus tremuloides) into mountain meadows. Removing gophers from meadow plots enhanced aspen growth, reproduction and survival. However, when gophers were present, aspen clones were limited to rocky outcrop areas, where tunneling and underground herbivory were limited due to shallow soil layers. The results of this study indicate that underground herbivory plays an important role in this, and possibly other plant communities, in this area, and the authors suggest that measurements of this detrimental herbivory should be included in future research projects.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.