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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 McHenryThis 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 JournalVolume
40Issue
5Pagination
451-462ISSN
1036-9872Department/School
School of Geography, Planning and Spatial SciencesPublisher
Australian Rangeland SocPlace of publication
54 Broome St, Cotteslow, Australia, 6011Rights statement
Copyright 2018 Australian Rangeland SocietyRepository Status
- Restricted