Impact of Tamarix Biocontrol on Understory Plant Community Traits
Annie Henry1*, Eduardo González2, Anna Sher3
1 University of Denver, Department of Biological Sciences, Denver, CO, USA; annie.henry@du.edu
2 Colorado State University, Department of Biology, Fort Collins, CO USA; edusargas@hotmail.com
3 University of Denver, Department of Biological Sciences, Denver, CO, USA; anna.sher@du.edu
The biological control agent Diorhabda spp. has spread further and faster than originally anticipated, leading to the pressing question of what plant communities will replace Tamarix as its dominance is reduced. This study looks at biological control of Tamarix as a novel disturbance which alters resource availability, having indirect effects on plant communities and ecosystem function. While previous research has examined plant community response to Tamarix defoliation in terms of species composition, this research uses a trait-based approach for a more mechanistic understanding of the environment-plant community relationship. A functional trait approach focuses on the morpho-physiological characteristics of organisms rather than species identity, to directly relate plant community response to environmental filters (such as light and water availability). We will present preliminary findings of plant community response to biocontrol Tamarix removal in 80 sites across the United States southwest, along gradients of defoliation and site environmental characteristics. This approach will provide managers with a tool to anticipate the effects of Tamarix biological control and more successfully revegetate after removal, based on knowledge of what trait combinations will thrive given specific site characteristics. Ultimately, this approach will also allow us to anticipate ecosystem effects of altered plant communities.