Seed dormancy and germination changes of snowbed species under climate warming: the role of pre- and post-dispersal temperatures.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Climate warming has major impacts on seed germination of several alpine species, hence on their regeneration capacity. Most studies have investigated the effects of warming after seed dispersal, and little is known about the effects a warmer parental environment may have on germination and dormancy of the seed progeny. Nevertheless, temperatures during seed development and maturation could alter the state of dormancy, affecting the timing of emergence and seedling survival. Here, the interplay between pre- and post-dispersal temperatures driving seed dormancy release and germination requirements of alpine plants were investigated.

Methods

Three plant species inhabiting alpine snowbeds were exposed to an artificial warming treatment (i.e. +1·5 K) and to na

SUBMITTER: Bernareggi G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4998984 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature