Soil properties rather than climate dominate the variation of leaf trait network structure in desert ecosystems: a case study from the Hexi Corridor, Northwestern China

Key Points

• Soil properties dictate the variation in leaf trait network structure across different desert areas.
• The analysis focused on the Hexi Corridor, noting significant interactions between soil and leaf traits.
• This study utilized observational data from various sites to assess ecological interactions in desert ecosystems.
• Understanding these dynamics may improve conservation strategies for arid regions, given the crucial role of soil.