Palynological evidence for the historic expansion of juniper and desert shrubs in Arizona, U.S.A.
Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology
By: O.K. Davis and R. M. Turner
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Abstract
Analysis of the sediment of Pecks Lake, Yavapai County, Arizona, has permitted the first reported palynological evidence for the historic expansion of juniper and desert shrubs in the American Southwest. The palynological evidence is supported by the comparison of modern and historical photographs, which shows the regional expansion of pinyon-juniper woodland, and the local increase of mesquite and creosote bush. A gradual increase in juniper pollen percentages began over 2000 years ago, but the rate of increase abruptly accelerated after the historic introduction of grazing animals. In contrast, juniper percentages did not increase during a prehistoric interval of intense disturbance by humans, about A.D. 1200, and a different weed flora was present. Prehistorically, water depth was greatest at ca. 600 B.C. and was lowest just prior to the arrival of Europeans. Regional climate has gradually cooled since the beginning of the record at 2630 B.P. ?? 1986.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Palynological evidence for the historic expansion of juniper and desert shrubs in Arizona, U.S.A. |
| Series title | Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology |
| DOI | 10.1016/0034-6667(86)90026-6 |
| Volume | 49 |
| Issue | 3-4 |
| Year Published | 1986 |
| Language | English |
| Larger Work Type | Article |
| Larger Work Subtype | Journal Article |
| Larger Work Title | Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology |
| First page | 177 |
| Last page | 193 |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |