Simulated hurricane-induced changes in light and nutrient regimes change seedling performance in Everglades forest-dominant species.

ABSTRACT: Wind damage from cyclones can devastate the forest canopy, altering environmental conditions in the understory that affect seedling growth and plant community regeneration. To investigate the impact of hurricane-induced increases in light and soil nutrients as a result of canopy defoliation, we conducted a two-way factorial light and nutrient manipulation in a shadehouse experiment. We measured seedling growth of the dominant canopy species in the four Everglades forest communities: pine rocklands (Pinus elliottii var densa), cypress domes (Taxodium distichum), hardwood hammocks, and tree islands (Quercus virginiana and Bursera simaruba). Light levels were full sun and 50% shade, and nutrient levels coupled with an additional set of individuals that were

SUBMITTER: May JL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8717270 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature