The role of nutrient cycling in the sustainability of young plant communities

Summary

In this study, nutrient cycling (particularly N) within young plant communities on sites previously mined for bauxite in south-west Western Australia was examined, to help mine restoration programs with rapid establishment and maintenance of processes of nutrient cycling.

Among the findings is the possibility that a slow growth approach to restoration may have preferable long-term outcomes to rapid re-establishment.

Keywords: restoration, rehabilitation, nutrient cycling, sustainability, bauxite mining