Honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) seedling emergence and survival was determined on pastures, with and without a long history of grazing, that were exposed to moderate and heavy defoliation intensities. Defoliation enhanced survival of mesquite seedlings because of the reduction in overstory cover that allowed more light to reach emerging seedlings. Root biomass was greater on sites without a long history of grazing, however, site history, root biomass and proximity of seeds to grasses did not affect seedling emergence or survival. These results indicate that levels of previous disturbance and competition with grasses have limited effects on mesquite seedling emergence and survival. The authors suggest that cattle grazing and seed deposition in cattle fecal matter most likely enhance mesquite populations.
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.