Expansion by native shrub Euryops floribundus affects soil and vegetation in Machubeni communal land, South Africa

Expansion by native shrub Euryops floribundus affects soil and vegetation in Machubeni communal land, South Africa

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The socio-economic and environmental effects of invasive alien plants have been well documented; however, little is known about expansion by expansive native species.In this study, the effects of expansion by the expansive native shrub species Euryops floribundus on soil and vegetation were examined in Machubeni communal land in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.Using a comparative approach, topsoil metabo 15-gauge finish nailer cordless samples were collected in a 1 m2 quadrat from expanded and non-expanded sites and were quantified for concentrations of soil macronutrients (total N, C, and P), pH, exchangeable cations (K, Ca, Mg, and Na), soil moisture, penetration, and soil water repellency.

Detailed vegetation surveys were conducted on similar quadrats.Expansion by the expansive native shrub E.floribundus resulted in increased soil pH, total C, K, Ca, and soil moisture, but did not affect other soil properties such as soil water repellency.

Euryops floribundus expansion had no effect on species diversity, although it reduced abundance and cover of graminoids.Principal component analysis showed that E.floribundus co-occurs with some species such as Centella asiatica, Cynadon dactylon, and Brachiaria serrata.

Litter cover was significantly higher in the expanded than the non-expanded sites.The study suggests that expansion by E.floribundus might iphone 13 pro max price winnipeg alter some soil properties and displace some plant species.

The study recommends that the expansive shrub E.floribundus be removed to reduce its expansion and subsequent impact on soil and vegetation.