The post-fire role of plant and soil fungal interactions insemi-arid watershed hydrology

摘要

In the southwest U.S., initial post-fire hydrologic response appears to be directed by the extent of vegetative cover removed, and the rate of post-fire plant community recovery. Soil fungi, including mycorrhiza associated with the perennial grasses, is an important component of these semi-arid ecosystems. Soil fungi affect aggregation processes, and mycorrhizal fungi influence the extent and rate of plant community recovery. The effect of burning on the fungi has a quantifiable effect on vegetation cover, soil structure and erosion rates. The objective of this presentation is to show first year results of the effect of prescribed burning on plantfungal interactions, and the resulting effects on soil structure and erosion rates in an oak savanna and a pine forest watershed.