Long-term noise pollution affects seedling recruitment and community composition, with negative effects persisting after removal.

ABSTRACT: Noise pollution can affect species' behaviours and distributions and may hold significant consequences for natural communities. While several studies have researched short-term effects of noise, no long-term research has examined whether observed patterns persist or if community recovery can occur. We used a long-term study system in New Mexico to examine the effects of continuous natural gas well noise exposure on seedling recruitment of foundational tree species (Pinus edulis, Juniperus osteosperma) and vegetation diversity. First, we examined seedling recruitment and vegetation diversity at plots where current noise levels have persisted for greater than 15 years. We then examined recruitment and diversity on plots where noise sources were recently removed or added. We fou

SUBMITTER: Phillips JN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8059579 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature