The role of the locoweed (Astragalus variabilis Bunge) in improving the soil properties of desert grasslands
Qinghai Wang A , Chao Chen A , Zhuo Pang A , Cui Li A , Dejun Wang B , Qingcheng Ma C and Juying Wu A D
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Beijing Research and Development Centre for Grass and Environment, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China.
B Tenggeli Animal Health Supervision Station, Tenggeli, Alxa Zuo Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia, 751799, China.
C Jilantai Animal Health Supervision Station, Jilantai, Alxa Zuo Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia, 750333, China.
D Corresponding author. Email: wujuying@grass-env.com
The Rangeland Journal 43(1) 47-54 https://doi.org/10.1071/RJ20028
Submitted: 23 April 2020 Accepted: 2 February 2021 Published: 6 April 2021
Abstract
Astragalus variabilis Bunge is a widespread locoweed that threatens livestock production in desert grassland. No research has reported its possible ecological functions due to focus being on its negative effect on livestock production. This study aimed to assess the effects of A. variabilis on soil properties and its possible role in improving soil quality in desert grassland. Soil samples were collected in Astragalus patches and the adjacent bare patches over two successive growing seasons in Alxa desert grassland where A. variabilis was favoured to spread. Soil properties including texture, water content, dry bulk density, porosity, available nutrients, organic matter, and soil microbial biomass were determined at 15 study sites. There was no significant difference in soil texture between Astragalus-dominant and bare patches; but organic matter (OM), available N and P, and microbial biomass in surface soil (0–30 cm) were significantly higher in Astragalus patches. Furthermore, microbial biomass showed a significantly positive correlation with available nutrients and OM. Levels of water soluble salt were significantly lower in A. variabilis surface soils under drought conditions. Results suggested that A. variabilis was associated with some positive changes in soil properties, and was potentially important in improving soil chemical and microbial properties in desert grassland ecosystems. Consequently, total elimination of locoweed should not necessarily be considered the best solution to locoweed poisoning in livestock.
Keywords: Astragalus, poisonous plants, rangeland, soil texture, soil available nutrient, soil microbial biomass.
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