Moose herbivory,browse quality,and nutrient cycling in an Alaskan treeline community |
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Authors: | Erik M Molvar R Terry Bowyer Victor Van Ballenberghe |
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Institution: | (1) Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 99775 Fairbanks, AK, USA;(2) Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 99775 Fairbanks, AK, USA;(3) Pacific Northwest Research Station, U.S. Forest Service, 201 East 9th Avenue, Suite 206, 99501 Anchorage, AK, USA |
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Abstract: | Moose (Alces alces) browsing on diamondleaf willow (Salix planifolia pulchra) caused significant increases in subsequent growth of stems and leaves in treeline plant communities in central Alaska, USA.
Willows growing in the shade were significantly more palatable for moose than those growing in the sun. Moose density had
strong effects on rates of nutrient cycling, ostensibly through effects of browsing and inputs from fecal and urinary nitrogen.
Moose are a keystone herbivore that likely mediate rates of nutrient cycling in northern ecosystems. |
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Keywords: | Alces alces Moose Nutrient cycling Salix Willow |
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