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Title
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Biogeomorphic feedback between plant growth and flooding causes alternative stable states in an experimental floodplain
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Author
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Abstract
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| It is important to understand the mechanisms of vegetation establishment on bare substrate in a disturbance-driven ecosystem because of many valuable ecosystem services. This study tested for empirical indications of local alternative stable states controlled by biogeomorphic feedbacks using flume experiments with alfalfa: (1) single flood experiments different in flood intensity and plant growth, (2) long-term evolution experiments with repeated flooding and seeding. We observed: (1) a combination of thresholds in plant growth and flooding magnitude for upgrowing seedlings to survive; (2) bimodality in vegetation biomass after floods indicating the existence of two alternative states, either densely vegetated or bare; (3) facilitation of vegetation establishment by the spatial pattern formation of channels and sand bars. In conclusion, empirical indicators were demonstrated for local alternative stable states in a disturbance-driven ecosystem associated with biogeomorphic feedbacks, which could contribute to the protection and restoration of vegetation in such ecosystems. |
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Language
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English
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Source (journal)
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Advances in water resources. - Southampton
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Publication
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Southampton
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2016
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ISSN
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0309-1708
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DOI
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10.1016/J.ADVWATRES.2015.07.003
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Volume/pages
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93
:B
(2016)
, p. 223-235
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ISI
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000377934400007
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Full text (Publisher's DOI)
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Full text (open access)
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Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
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