Silicon uptake and distribution in Agropyron smithii as related to grazing history and defoliation
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Authors: M. S. Cid, J. K. Detling, A. D. Whicker, and M. A. Brizuela
Date: 1990
Journal: Journal of Range Management
Volume: 43
Number: 4
Pages: 344-346
Summary of Methods: Cid et al. examined western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii) plants from heavily grazed prairie dog colonies (40 years) and exclosures by defoliated plants 4 times at 6 weeks intervals. Although there were no differences in cumulative shoot biomass production between populations (of plants exposed to grazing and not), defoliation increased production above the clipping height (22% greater above ground production). The lack of interaction between population and defoliation treatment indicates both populations responded similarly to defoliation. Total amount of silica did not differ between populations and treatments, but concentrations varied between plant parts, being highest in the roots and leaf blades, and lowest in rhizomes.
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: western wheatgrass, agropyron smithii, biomass production, clipping, growth chamber, prairie dog colonies
Annotation: Study period spanned 18 weeks.
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