Abstract
Abstract Serpentine grasslands support a unique endemic flora composed of many rare species that are tolerant of the inhospitable soil conditions characteristic of ultramafic soils. In the eastern United States, rare plants of many serpentine grasslands are being displaced as a result of invasion by Pinus species and consequent changes in environmental conditions. Community structure and function of symbiotic soil arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) also may be affected by Pinus succession. This study examined changes in soil properties, AMF communities, and plant growth in serpentine grassland soils that have been invaded by Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana Mill.). Sites representing three vegetation types (grassland, pine savanna, and pine woodland) were assessed at the Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area, Maryland, USA. In comparison to grassland sites, soil pH and concentrations of Ca, Mg, and Ni were reduced in pine woodland soils. Savanna soils exhibited an increase in Mg and Ni concentrations...
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