Changes in Plant Diversity and Soil Factors under Different Rocky Desertification Degrees in Northern Guangdong, China

Revegetation is an important restoration strategy for the control of rocky desertification. However, few studies have focused on effects different desertification degrees (RDDs) plant diversity and soil fertility in northern Guangdong over long periods time. In this study, variance analysis, correlation canonical analysis (CCA) were used to examine diversity, physicochemical properties, their correlations various areas Guangdong. The results showed that Pinaceae, Lauraceae, Fagaceae species relatively abundant Additionally, Cinnamomum camphora, Schima superba, Pinus massoniana, Quercus stewardiana, Acer camphora could be as indicators There significant differences community compositions characteristics between five RDDs, vegetation exhibited trend initial destruction then gradual improvement stabilization. bulk density, mechanical composition, organic matter, total nitrogen, alkaline hydrolysis available potassium RDDs. Except pH, chemical all had clear aggregation effects. Soil potassium, nitrogen degradation–improvement cycles. revealed there was a properties diversity. CCA most factors affecting structures phosphorus phosphorus. conclusion, some achievements been made Guangdong; while structure improved, nutrients also improved. Vegetation strong coupling relationship. later stages recovery, suitable considered varying P K supplemented appropriately. Our study will implications revegetation