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High soil acidity under native shrub encroachment in the Cobar Pediplain, south-eastern Australia

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 22:59 authored by Tighe, M, Reid, N, Wilson, BR, Melinda McHenryMelinda McHenry
This study investigated the chemical characteristics of shallow (0–30 cm) soil profiles under shrubs in areas of dense encroachment and compared them with shallow soil profiles under nearby large trees. Consistent patterns of high soil acidity were found under shrubs, as well as lower litter alkalinity, lower relative concentrations of calcium (Ca2+), lower effective cation exchange capacity, and higher aluminium (Al3+) and sodium (Na+) in the soil profile compared with under trees. Soil pH (CaCl2) was strongly correlated with the Ca content of surface litter. These findings suggest that shrubs (which at most sites included the shrub form of tree species) cycle alkalinity differently from large and mature trees, resulting in high acidity in the shallow soil profile acidity, and possible loss of alkalinity via surface movement of material from areas of dense encroachment.

History

Publication title

Rangeland Journal

Volume

40

Issue

5

Pagination

451-462

ISSN

1036-9872

Department/School

School of Geography, Planning and Spatial Sciences

Publisher

Australian Rangeland Soc

Place of publication

54 Broome St, Cotteslow, Australia, 6011

Rights statement

Copyright 2018 Australian Rangeland Society

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Effects of climate change on Australia (excl. social impacts)