Exotic grass invasions: applying a conceptual framework to the dynamics of degradation and restoration in Australia's tropical savannas.

摘要: Plant invasions can cause severe degradation of natural areas. The ability an ecosystem to recover autogenically from following weed control is in part determined by the type and magnitude changes both biotic abiotic processes caused invasion how these interact with structural functional components ecosystem. Recently, a number conceptual frameworks have been proposed describe dynamics regeneration degraded ecosystems. We assessed utility one describing restoration potential Australia's tropical savannas exotic grass invasion. First, we identified easily measured characteristics putative states. found that continuous cover grasses Gamba (Andropogon gayanus Kunth.) Perennial mission (Pennisetum polystachion (L.) Schult.) under intact tree canopy was common state understorey characterized reduced species richness abundance change relative contribution groups. Further led where severely impacts on were more severe. In states, seed bank substantially less than vegetation. Guided framework, combined our study other studies construct model for grass-invaded savannas.