Monotypic stands of Tamarix spp are replacing native vegetation along many western river systems. This study examines the effects of this invasive vegetation on arthropod diversity and abundance. Three paired plots of Tamarix ramosissima and Salix exigua were selected in a floodplain along the Rio Grande in Southern New Mexico. These plots were sampled using a variety of methods including: visual searching of the bark, flowers, stems, and leaves; sweep netting of the flowers and vegetation; clipping of vegetation and flowers throughout the canopy; pitfall trapping under the canopy; Berlese funnels to collect arthropods in associated ground litter; and Malaise traps erected between trees. Sampled arthropods were counted and identified as to family.
Species 1: Violales Tamaricaceae Tamarix ramosissima (Saltcedar)
Species 2: Salicales Salicaceae Salix exigua (Coyote willow)
Keywords: sampling methods, invasive vegetation
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