Population Ecology of Giant Reed (Arundo donax L.) Along the Environmental Gradient in Abha Valley, Asir Mountains, Saudi Arabia
摘要
This study investigated the population ecology of giant reed (Arundo donax L.) species along the environmental gradient in Abha Valley, Asir Mountains, Saudi Arabia. The study involved sampling homogeneous and monospecific stands of A. donax across six sites in the Abha Valley. At each site, three stands were selected, and within each stand, five randomly distributed quadrats (each measuring 1.0 × 1.0 m) were used to record the density, morphology, and biomass of the A. donax. The results of this study showed significant variability in the density, morphological, and biomass parameters of the A. donax across the different sampling sites in the Abha Valley. Soil properties, including organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and clay, were found to be strong predictors of A. donax density, morphology, and biomass. The relationship between shoot basal diameter and shoot density suggested density-size effects. The researchers in this study applied regression analysis techniques to develop a predictive equation that can estimate the biomass of A. donax shoots based on shoot height and shoot basal diameter. This method was time-saving and the resulting equation might be useful in evaluating management techniques used for monitoring A. donax. The findings of this study may contribute to the effective management of A. donax and the conservation of native ecosystems in the region.