Rangeland Ecology & Management

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Factors limiting seasonal growth and peak biomass accumulation in Eriophorum vaginatum in Alaskan tussock tundra
Author
Shaver, G. R., F. Chapin III, B. L. Gartner
Publication Year
1969
Body

Clipped and unclipped plants were exposed to various light, temperature, and fertilizer treatments to determine the factor limiting the growth of Eriophorum vaginatum in an Alaskan tundra. Varying light and temperature levels did not affect plant growth, however, fertilizers greatly enhanced plant growth and nitrogen was determined to be the nutrient that was limiting growth of E. vaginatum plants in this area. Clipping reduced root biomass, individual tiller weight, and end of season total biomass, however, clipping increased N and P concentrations of plant parts, indicating that the reduced root biomass did not limit nutrient uptake. Clipped plants generally recovered from clipping after one growing season and the results suggest that these plants can tolerate intense clipping and maintain nutrient uptake suitable for regrowth the following season.

Language
en
Keywords
fertilization
biomass production
limiting nutrient
nutrient reserves
root growth
simulated grazing
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