Earthworm invasion causes declines across soil fauna size classes and biodiversity facets in northern North American forests
Data files
Feb 10, 2021 version files 80.69 KB
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Jochum_oikos_2021_dryad.r
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plotdata_macro_constrained_20210105.csv
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plotdata_meso_constrained_20210105.csv
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plotdata_nema_constrained_20210105.csv
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README.txt
Abstract
Methods
For full methods and details, please refer to the methods section and supplementary material of the published paper (Jochum et al. 2021, Oikos). In short, samples have been taken between 2016 and 2017 in four northern North American forests (3 in Alberta, Canada; 1 in Minnesota, USA). In each forest, we sampled 10 plots in a low-earthworm invasion area and a 10 plots in a high-invasion area, respectively (pre-determined by earthworm sampling in the whole area to establish the local invasion front). On each plot, we sampled earthworms (digging and mustard extraction), surface-dwelling soil invertebrate macrofauna (by hand and litter sieving), and we extracted soil mesofauna (Collembola and Acari) and soil nematodes from soil cores (5 cm diameter, 10 cm depth). Animals were counted, identified and measured for body length in the lab. We processed these data and calculated earthworm, macro-, meso-, and microfauna (nematode) species richness, biomass, abundance, and shannon index (four community properties / biodiversity facets). Subsequently we used these data to analyze the impact of earthworm invasion status (low vs. high invasion, see paper for details) and intensity (earthworm biomass) on the four listed community properties for each of the size groups. Additionally, we determined whether community property identity or size group had any effect on the response to earthworm invasion.
Usage notes
This dataset is related to Jochum et al. 2021, Oikos, and includes data and R-code to re-run the main analyses of the paper, create statistical output (in tables), and plot the main figures.
For metadata of data files, please refer to the README.txt file.
For further information, please refer to the paper and supporting information (open access).