Affiliation:
1. College of Desert Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
2. Yinshanbeilu Grassland Eco-Hydrology National Observation and Research Station, China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research, Beijing 100038, China
3. Ordos City Water Conservancy Development Center, Ordos 017000, China
Abstract
Moisture plays a pivotal role in the establishment of vegetation in sandy areas, underscoring the need to comprehend the water utilization strategies employed by established trees for the judicious use of water resources. Despite this significance, there exists a research gap concerning the water uptake patterns and consumption disparities between the dominant trees, namely the dry willow (Salix matsudana) and small-leafed poplar (Populus simonii), in the Mu Us sandy region. Consequently, our study sought to investigate the water utilization patterns and transpiration water consumption of these two plants. This was achieved through the analysis of hydrogen and oxygen isotope compositions in xylem water, soil water, and groundwater, coupled with the assessment of stem flow rates of tree trunks. The findings reveal that both Salix matsudana and Populus simonii exhibited variations in soil water content with soil depth, characterized by an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease. During the months of July, August, and September, both species demonstrated the ability to absorb water from multiple sources concurrently. Specifically, Salix matsudana and Populus simonii predominantly utilized middle and shallow soil water sources in July and September, respectively. However, in August, both species primarily relied on shallow soil water for absorption. Over the period from July to September, the sap flow rate of Salix matsudana surpassed that of Populus simonii by 1888.2 mL·h−1 to 2499.04 mL·h−1, representing a 1.5 to 2.2 times increase. This underscores the necessity for Salix matsudana to draw water from middle and deep soil layers to compensate for shallow water deficits. In summary, schemes for the establishment of vegetation in sandy areas should consider the dynamic nature of water uptake and evapotranspiration, emphasizing the importance of regulating these processes for efficient water conservation and utilization.
Funder
Inner Mongolia Natural Science Foundation
Inner Mongolia Science and Technology Program
Collaborative Innovation Center for Grassland Ecological Security
Science and Technology Program of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
Subject
Water Science and Technology,Aquatic Science,Geography, Planning and Development,Biochemistry
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