Efficient application of a browsing repellent: Can associational effects within and between plants be exploited?

摘要: Browsing can reduce forest productivity, particularly when the apical shoots of trees are damaged. Repellents used widely to browsing, but application is costly. To improve efficiency, it may be possible take advantage associational plant refuge effects, requiring repellents applied only some or parts trees, reapplied less frequently. Using captive moose (Alces alces) and constructed stands Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), we tested for potential refuges by applying a commercial repellent (HaTe2) all, alternate none shoots, all previous-year shoots. We also under field conditions, in stands. Captive (two individuals 2.1-ha enclosure, ~ 95 km−2) browsed 100% were significantly likely browse treated with repellent. Associational was ineffective both within between trees. In (0.84 km−2), 1.3% sustained browsing damage. Applying pines had no direct effect nor any within-plant effects. Trees provided protection untreated neighbouring this not biologically meaningful given low percentage overall. Here, simple experiment predictive response observed field, demonstrating need test strategies situ.