Understory patch dynamics and ungulate herbivory in old-growth forests of Olympic National Park, Washington
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Authors: E. G. Schreiner, K. A. Kruger, P. J. Happe, and D. B. Houston
Date: 1996
Journal: Canadian Journal of Forest Research
Volume: 26
Number: 2
Pages: 255-265
Summary of Methods: This study was part of a broad effort to understand the role of native ungulates in the dynamics of old-growth forests in Olympic National Park, Washington. The authors examined the structure and patch dynamics of understory vegetation in an old-growth Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis
)-western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) forest. Grass dominated patches disappeared following 8 years of protection from ungulate herbivory. Ungulates maintained a reduced standing crop, increased forb species richness, and determined the distribution, morphology, and reproductive performance of several shrub species. The authors note there is clearly a dynamic relationship between patch type, tree fall, and ungulate herbivory in these old-growth forests. The results show that ungulate herbivory is a driving force shaping vegetation patterns in coastal coniferous forests. Article Summary / Main Points: None
Vegetation Types:
MLRA Ecoregions:
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Rangelands Wildlife
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Experimental Research
Keywords: native ungulates, elk, cervus elaphus, black-tailed deer, odocoileus hemionus columbianus, browsing, understory patch dynamics, old-growth forests, olympic national park
Annotation: None
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