Does Heathland Burning Promote Seed Germination in the Problem Species Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius L.)
Student thesis: Master Thesis and HD Thesis
- Line Damkjær Vorup
4. term, Biology, Master (Master Programme)
The spread of invasive species is a global problem. Invasive species pose a threat to both biodiversity and ecosystem services as they outcompete native species. In particular, nutrient-poor habitats, such as heathlands, are endangered by the invasive species. Burning is widely used as a man- agement strategy on the heathlands, but the knowledge of the effect of burning on regeneration of invasive species is limited. In this study, the effect of heathland burning on seed germination of Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) was investigated, to determine whether high temperatures have a encouraging or inhibiting effect on seed germination. This was done by comparing seeds that had been exposed to a heathland fire with seeds that had not been exposed. In addition, a heat treatment experiment was conducted, where seeds were exposed to 50°C, 65°C, 80°C, 95°C or 110°C, respectively, to investigate the effect on seed germination. It turns out that heathland burning and heat treatments have a promoting effect on germination, with the exception of the heat treatment of 50°C. This means that burning as a management strategy must be re-evaluated if a given heathland area has been invaded by Scotch broom.
Language | Multiple languages |
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Publication date | 1 Jun 2022 |
Number of pages | 20 |
External collaborator | Naturstyrelsen Thy No Name vbn@aub.aau.dk Information group |