Ecosystem alteration of boreal forest streams by beaver (Castor canadensis)
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Authors: R. J. Naiman, J. M. Melillo, and J. E. Hobbie
Date: 1986
Journal: Ecology
Volume: 67
Number: 5
Pages: 1254-1269
Summary of Methods: For centuries beaver (Castor canadensis) have been altering stream systems in North America. In this study, Naiman et al. measured stream inputs and outputs and examined physical and biological parameters to determine the effects of beaver on riparian structure and function. Beaver were directly responsible for the presence of 53% of the fine wood in streams and the indirect effects of their dams (ponding, saturated soils, etc.) caused 50-60% of the remaining fine wood to be present in the stream. Ponds behind beaver dams retained large amounts of sediment, resulting in decreased sediment availability to the rest of the watershed, which in turn, produced more carbon and had much slower decay rates than surrounding streams. In general, beaver had the greatest impact on middle order (2nd-4th) streams, as they preferred to build their dams in streams this size, however secondary and long term effects of beaver were evident throughout the watershed.
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: beaver, castor canadensis, biogeochemistry, carbon budget, ecosystem, keystone species, landscape, watershed
Annotation: Grazing intensity is not specified. Creeks were surveyed in June 1981 and June 1982 and again in August 1981 and August 1982. Insects were collected weekly, from May to mid-October 1982.
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