Soil Seed Bank Characteristics of Nitraria tangutorum Nebkhas in a Desert–Oasis Ecotone

Understanding soil seed banks (SSBs) of Nitraria tangutorum nebkhas is critical for vegetation restoration and ecological management in desert–oasis ecotones. In this study, we conducted a survey the field germination experiment laboratory to investigate characteristics SSB different sizes parts examine their relationship with aboveground vegetation. The results showed that there were 17 species plants six families ecotone, dominated by Chenopodiaceae. life forms mainly annual herbs, accounting 58.82%–71.43%. number order large nebkha > medium small nebkha, was no significant difference density. However, densities each bottom middle top. significantly decreasing trend as depth increased. Most plant seeds distributed 0–5 cm layer. similarity coefficient between high. From top, common decreased, greater than Vegetation plays decisive role initial development nebkha. When develops certain extent, it reacts vegetation, thereby intensifying differences composition further affecting SSB.