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This study examines factors causing patterning of the desert vegetation in a seriously degraded part of Kuwait. In sufficiently wet years, the grass Stipa capensis forms extensive stands, and is accompanied by a limited number of other annuals. Closer inspection revealed a distinct patterning of the vegetation. Species density and richness were much greater in slight depressions caused by the single passage of a vehicle than away from the tracks. This is attributed to changes in key soil attributes to provide a more favourable growth medium for plants in the tracks, as well as an increased influx of diaspores. (C) 2001 Academic Press.