Wolves, elk, willows, and trophic cascades in the upper Gallatin range of southwestern Montana, USA
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Authors: W. J. Ripple, and R. L. Beschta
Date: 2004
Journal: Forest Ecology and Management
Volume: 200
Number: 1-3
Pages: 161-181
Summary of Methods: Ripple and Beschta used historic data, photo records, and current vegetation measurements to determine the impacts of elk (Cervus elaphus) herbivory on willows (Salix spp.) before the extirpation of wolves (Canis lupus), during the period without wolves and since the re-introduction of wolves in the upper Gallatin range. Historical evidence indicates that elk damage to willows strongly coincides with the period of wolf extirpation and present data suggests that some willows are recovering from long-term elk herbivory since the re-introduction of wolves. Browsing of willows by elk was limited and willows were taller in areas where risk of wolf predation was considered high. Browsing was intense and willows were shorter where predation risk was considered low. The authors concluded that wolf re-introduction has reduced the intensity of elk browsing and enhanced the recovery of willows in some areas of the upper Gallatin range, suggesting a trophic cascade among wolves, elk and willows.
Article Summary / Main Points: None
Vegetation Types:
MLRA Ecoregions:
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Rangelands Wildlife
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Documented Case History
Keywords: elk, cervus elaphus, willows, salix spp., herbivory, predation risk, trophic cascades
Annotation: None
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