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Herbivore Fronts Shape Saltmarsh Plant Traits and Performance.

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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Purple marsh crab (Sesarma reticulatum) herbivory alters saltmarsh plant traits. Leading edges show reduced growth and defense, while trailing edges exhibit increased belowground biomass, impacting ecosystem resilience.

Keywords:
Sporobolus alterniflorusconsumer frontsfeeding frontsplant defenseplant functional traitsplant‐herbivore interactionstop‐down control

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Salt Marsh Ecosystems
  • Plant-Herbivore Interactions

Background:

  • Herbivore fronts significantly influence ecosystem structure and function through grazing.
  • Plant trait alterations driven by herbivores are crucial but often overlooked in ecosystem assessments.
  • The purple marsh crab (Sesarma reticulatum) creates distinct herbivore fronts in Virginian salt marshes by consuming cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of Sesarma reticulatum herbivore fronts on Spartina alterniflora traits and geomorphic processes.
  • To quantify Sesarma front migration rates and Spartina retreat/re-vegetation dynamics.
  • To assess the persistence of herbivore-induced trait changes in Spartina alterniflora.

Main Methods:

  • Quantified Sesarma front migration rates in Virginian salt marshes.
  • Assessed geomorphic changes (elevation, sediment shear strength, organic matter, bulk density) at leading and trailing edges.
  • Analyzed Spartina alterniflora growth, defensive traits, and belowground biomass production.
  • Monitored trait persistence over an 8-week period.

Main Results:

  • Sesarma front migration was slower than in other regions, with Spartina retreat exceeding re-vegetation.
  • Herbivory reduced elevation and sediment shear strength at the trailing edge but did not affect soil organic matter or bulk density.
  • At the leading edge, grazing reduced Spartina growth and defensive traits, with effects persisting.
  • At the trailing edge, grazing promoted belowground biomass production with minimal impact on other traits.

Conclusions:

  • Herbivore fronts negatively impact saltmarsh plant traits at the leading edge, potentially driving front propagation.
  • Plants at the trailing edge demonstrate greater resistance and resilience to herbivory, possibly due to increased belowground biomass.
  • Incorporating herbivore-driven plant trait alterations is essential for predicting saltmarsh ecosystem responses and recovery.