Biological soil crust recovery after long-term grazing exclusion in the Monte Desert (Argentina). Changes in coverage, spatial distribution, and soil nitrogen

► We compared characteristics of soil crusts in a reserve and grazing areas. ► Soil crusts were more abundant in the reserve. ► Lichen-dominated crusts grew in exposed areas between plant canopies in the reserve. ► Moss-dominated crusts grew preferentially under Larrea cuneifolia canopies. ► Soil N concentration was higher in soils not covered by crusts.