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 This table shows the relationship between plant diversity and animal densities in a Sonoran Desert ecosystem. An increase in plant diversity is associated with an increase in animal density. (Click to enlarge) The results of this study show three main patterns. First, the results show that as the density of native plants increases, so does the density of animals. Plant density varied from 0 to 14 plants per 441 square feet, while animal density increased from .05 to 2.78 animals. Second, the results show that as the diversity of plants increases in a Sonoran desert ecosystem, the density of animals also increases. While plant diversity varied from 0 to 5 plants, animal density varied from .05 to 2.23 animals per 441 square feet. Finally, as the diversity of plants increases, the diversity of animals in the study ecosystem increases. Plant diversity ranged from 0 to 5 different plant species per 441 square feet, while animal diversity ranged from .04 to 2.17 different animal species. In view of this analysis, the data clearly supports my hypothesis that plant density and diversity directly affect animal densities and diversities in this Sonoran desert ecosystem. The greater the density and diversity of Sonoran desert plants, the greater the density and diversity of animals that live in these ecosystems. Animals and their different kinds were more numerous where plant numbers were greater. In addition, the greater the plant species index, the greater the habitat variation, which allowed higher animal densities and diversities. |
Future exploration could look at other variables. Future research could look at factors which could have had a stronger influence on animal densities and diversities than did the presence of plants. Weather, water availability, soil conditions, and non-plant-related food sources are factors that may affect the results. Further research could include the measurement of these factors to determine if they, instead of plant density and diversity, affect animal density and diversity. Finally, future studies could look at which species of plants attract specific animal species. The present research has important applications. It could be used as a management tool to attract animal species by suggesting minimum plant densities per 441 square feet in the development of natural Sonoran deserts. This management tool could minimize the unwanted effects of development on the animal populations in Sonoran deserts. Today, developers often bulldoze all natural vegetation during construction in desert ecosystems. Cities could pass laws requiring developers to keep a minimum number of native desert plants per acre when clearing these areas. In addition, studies that focus on which species of plants attract specific animal species could help landscape architects create natural desert environments that attract desired animal species. Although the current study is just a beginning, these future research suggestions could help to further protect and maintain natural desert ecosystems. |
