Linking responses of native and invasive plants to hurricane disturbances: implications for coastal plant community structure

摘要: Hurricane disturbances produce significant changes in forest microclimates, creating opportunities for seedling regeneration of native and invasive plant species alike. However, there is limited information on how microclimates pre-existing conditions affect plants responses to hurricane disturbances. In this manipulative study, we examined the three common shrub/small stature tree species, two which are coastal region southeastern USA (Baccharis halimifolia Morella cerifera) one that (Triadica sebifera), key components disturbance (canopy damage saline storm surge). a greenhouse, grew seedlings these under range shade levels mimicked pre-and post-hurricane canopy wet pine mixed hardwood forest, communities areas USA. Seedlings were subjected surges equivalent full strength sea water 3 days. Seedling (mortality growth) treatments monitored 16 months. All benefitted from higher openness. Storm surge effects short-lived readily recovered high light conditions. The had stronger negative survival growth all when coupled with shade, suggesting has greater impacts where winds cause minimal or no damage. T. sebifera was by far more tolerant than natives. Survival highly shaded may provide it competitive edge over during community reassembly following tropical storms. Differential will have profound consequences structure across stands, be regulated legacies prior disturbances, structure, extent damage, species’ tolerance specific microclimates.