Dominant species as biological indicators to predict the changes of trace element in different types of rangeland

Alpine meadow, typical steppe and desert are globally important rangeland ecosystems. However, the seasonal variations in concentrations of trace elements, which nutrients for grazing livestock, unclear these types it is difficult to prevent disorders livestock caused by element excesses deficiencies. In order identify forage species might serve as indicators status forage, we investigated trends Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn plant communities dominant from diverse northwest China relation sufficiency levels. The changed significantly with season, highest Mn lowest Fe detected spring summer, respectively. mean temperature, precipitation, above-ground biomass negatively correlated variation community. there was almost no significant correlation between factors Cu concentrations. were much higher than recommended levels all types, but alpine meadow rangelands barely met nutritional requirements animal growth. Based on deficiencies, suggest that some could be used biological predict changes elements. A decrease relative Kobresia capillifolia humilis meadows implies a K. meadows, an increase Stipa bungeana steppes Nitraria tangutorum Salsola passertine lead decreased