Root Functional Traits and Water Erosion-Reducing Potential of Two Indigenous C4 Grass Species for Erosion Control of Mudstone Badlands in Taiwan

In southern Taiwan, mudstone badland accounts for over 1000 km2 of the upstream region watersheds. Rainstorms often induce interrill and surface erosion on slopes. Furthermore, large quantity soils detached by runoff result in severe sedimentation reservoirs. Thus, soil control badlands represents one most pressing problems reservoir watershed management. Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. (Bermuda grass) Eremochloa ophiuroides (Munro) Hack. (Centipedegrass) are two native predominant C4 grass species appearing badlands. They play a key role revegetation Nevertheless, their root functional traits water erosion-reducing potential have not been investigated. this study, were examined. Vertical pullout tensile tests conducted to measure resistance strength. Hydraulic flume also performed evaluate potentials. The results demonstrated that systems C. E. grasses all belonged fibrous M-type. had remarkably better compared those ophiuroides. was higher than addition, hydraulic showed has smaller detachment rates Altogether, our data clearly show traits, resistance, is more suitable badland. Further studies large-scale implementation techniques these efficient vegetation restoration needed.