Spatial and Temporal Variability in Perennial and Annual Vegetation at Chaco Canyon, New Mexico

Annual plant populations in norhtwestern New Mexico were found to be spatially and temporally highly variable. During favorable years annual plant species have patterns of dominance and diversity that are different from those of perennial species. Measurement of perennial plant diversity in plant communities is a poor predictor of productivity. Both perennial and annual components of plant communities should be considered in measurements of diversity and productivity.