PJB-2020-384
EDGE EFFECT FROM SOIL VIEWPOINT: A FOREST-MEADOW SHIFT
THEODORE DANSO MARFO
Abstract
Due to sudden changes in the vegetation structure and patterns, transition areas between two different ecosystems (ecotones) are clearly noticeable. However, not much is unknown on how important soil variables regulate ecotones and how distinct soil characteristics differ across ecotones. This study seeks to analyse how soil properties vary across the forest – meadow ecotone at the Bukovinka experiment site of the Training Forest Enterprise (T.F.E), Masaryk Forest Křtiny, Czechia. Eleven sampling sites were selected: four in the forest area, four in the meadow and three ecotone spots. Soil samples were taken at 5 cm below the soil surface once every month from April to November. All the collected soil samples were examined for minimal air capacity, actual and potential soil reaction and maximum capillary water. The results showed a pattern of soil acidity decreasing from the forest stand towards the meadow but markedly decreased at the ecotone spot. The average values recorded in the forest, ecotone and meadow for maximum capillary water and minimum air capacity were distinct from each other confirming edge effect. This shows the influence the soil has on vegetation distribution across ecotones.
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