Document: CAR-3-48-5

Effects of Neotoma micropus Dens on Prosopis glandulosa.

KINNE, C.D.* and D.M.POST

University of Texas of the Permian Basin, Odessa, TX 79761, USA 1

Abstract:
We studied the effects of the presence of Southern Plains woodrat Neotoma micropus dens upon mesquite trees Prosopis glandulosa. Ten pairs of trees, each pair consisting of a tree with a den and one without, were matched for size and location. Soil core samples of 30 cm were extracted from under each tree. Cores were divided by depth in 10 cm increments, and analyzed for soil nutrient content. Seedpods were counted, collected, and analyzed from each of the trees studied. Analysis of soil cores showed soil under trees with dens contained significantly more nitrate, nitrite, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, but not more chloride, magnesium, manganese, or sulfate. Seedpod epicarp was significantly heavier from trees with dens compared to trees without dens. Our results suggest that presence of woodrat dens alters soil nutrient characteristics. Further, mesquite trees with dens produce heavier seedpod epicarp, which may provide more protection for seeds.

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PLANT-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS