ISSN:
1432-1939
Keywords:
Burrows
;
Desert
;
Ground squirrels
;
Infiltration
;
Cool desert
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract The hypothesis that small mammal burrows can increase the amount of water infiltrating into the soil profile was tested. The amount of water added to the soil profile from spring recharge in areas adjacent to ground squirrel (Spermophilus townsendii and S. elegans) burrows was compared to nearby areas without burrows. Recharge amounts in burrow areas were significantly higher than nonburrow areas. An average of 21% more of the winter precipitation infiltrated into the soil near burrows. The amount of recharge was also found to be positively related to burrow density. Burrows also affected the distribution of the recharge by adding significantly more water to the deeper portions (〉50 cm) of the soil profile.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00317299
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