Correlation of the Exposure and Potential Solar Radiation to Plant Frequency of Agropyron desertorum
Mayland HF. 1972. Correlation of the Exposure and Potential Solar Radiation to Plant Frequency of Agropyron desertorum. Ecology. 53(6):1204-1206
The hypothesis that exposure and potential solar beam radiation are useful parameters in describing frequency response of a monoculture bunchgrass was tested. Slope, aspect [sine (azimuth angle +68 d)]; and daily potential solar beam radiation (June 22) accounted for 18%, 8% and 13% respectively, and 22% collectively, of the variation in Agropyron desertorum plant frequency. Maximum plant numbers occurred on south- to west- exposures, but these exposures had more steeply inclined slopes and actually received less potential solar radiation than others during the summer solstice. Aspect data alone are inadequate for interpreting plant response to soil moisture, temperature, and solar radiation, especially when a wide range in slope is involved.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Mayland, H.
- Units
- SODN
- Keywords
- Agropyron desertorum, Ecology (Abiotic Effects), Solar Radiation