ISSN:
1432-1939
Keywords:
Amensalism
;
Herbivory
;
Homoptera
;
Karoo
;
Vegetation change
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary The prediction that density of long-lived, underground herbivores (Cicadidae) is a function of rangeland condition was examined in arid shrublands in the Karoo, South Africa. It was found that the density of adult cicadas was correlated with cover of deep-rooted, perennial plants. Differences in perennial plant cover were independent of soil type and rock cover. On degraded rangelands, where perennial plants had been replaced by ephemerals and short-lived plants, cicada densities were significantly depressed. We concluded that vegetation transformation by domestic livestock is likely to affect invertebrate populations and their vertebrate predators.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00317798
