The factors contributing to an increase in the number of plant species in landslide areas in a snowy cold region

Abstract

We analyzed the factors contributing to plant species richness 3 years after a landslide. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to clarify the factors that suppress surface soil erosion, which is important for the initial establishment of plants. A generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) was constructed to clarify the factors contributing to the plant diversity. The result showed that the biological legacy effectively prevents soil erosion and contributes to initial plant establishment. Plants included in the legacy and soil conditions that can support roots increased species richness. Thus, moderate soil hardness and biological legacy are important for enhancing species richness in landslide areas of gentle slope in a snowy cold region.