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Changes in Tree Density and Species Composition in a Protected Trachypogon Savanna, Venezuela
Author(s) -
San Jose J. J.,
Farinas M. R.
Publication year - 1983
Publication title -
ecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.144
H-Index - 294
eISSN - 1939-9170
pISSN - 0012-9658
DOI - 10.2307/1939963
Subject(s) - ironstone , arboreal locomotion , grassland , trampling , grazing , woodland , ecology , population density , woody plant , geography , population , agroforestry , forestry , biology , habitat , demography , archaeology , sociology
Changes were recorded in population and species density of a 3—ha permanent Trachypogon savanna plot, protected against fire and cattle grazing for 16 yr (1961—1977). This savanna is a grassland (mainly Trachypogon species), with scattered trees and groves. Under protection it is gradually changing into a denser arboreal community; trees in the grassland and in the groves increased 14.6— and 3.7—fold, respectively. In places, ironstone outcrops limit woody plant invasion and prevent the whole area from developing into a savanna woodland. Experimental explosions (using dynamite) in the ironstone outcrop led to the growth of trees in soil pockets formed in the artificial fissures.