Plant traits as the main drivers of biomass allocation in invaded communities: Implications for riparian management

In July-August 2021, we conducted a detailed survey of 20 sites distributed at different tributaries and main streams of the TGRR. The minimum value of elevation in these sites is 154 meters and the maximum value is 175 meters. For each site, we established two plots: One plot was established in areas dominated by invasive plants (referred to as invasion plots, IP), where invasive species cover exceeds 30%. The second plot was established in adjacent areas without any invasive species presence, referred to as native plots (NP). We paired each IP with a nearby NP to ensure consistency in soil type, elevation, and slope. In each IP and NP plot, six quadrats (2 m × 2 m) were randomly established, totaling 240 quadrats, including 120 IP quadrats (20 plots × 6 quadrats) and 120 NP quadrats. We calculated species diversity and functional diversity, measured multiple soil and terrain factors, and obtained plant trait indicators and community biomass.