Disentangling the independent effects of vegetation cover and pattern on runoff and sediment yield in dryland systems – Uncovering processes through mimicked plant patches

There is strong empirical evidence on the importance of spatial pattern vegetation in dryland hydrologic and geomorphologic dynamics. However, changes cover are often linked, making it difficult to disentangle assess their independent hydro-geomorphologic roles. We used synthetic sponges placed soil surface mimic aboveground structure patches, manipulated patch as well sink capacity patches a set 24 (2 × 1 m) runoff plots. Combining natural-rainfall simulated-rainfall experiments, we aimed test that (1) both independently control sediment yield; (2) for any given cover, coarsening entails increasing (3) effect mostly exerted by modulating source-sink dynamics system. found either or density decreased yields from natural rainfalls, yet largely disappeared when co-varying was removed. Simulated-rainfall experiments plots with equal medium-low showed however coarser patterns (lower density; higher size) increased coefficients reduced time compared finer patterns. The particularly clear function also mimicked. Rainfall interception direct protection proved be critical mechanisms underlying effects they barely contributed pattern. overland flow through level disruption. physical obstructions hardly unless coupled mimicked sinks. Overall this work demonstrates functioning patchy landscapes, being primary factor exhibiting its full potential low medium values. Our findings provide useful information modelling understanding dynamics, designing management restoration measures take into account role played hydrological connectivity landscapes.