Priority effects vary with species identity and origin in an experiment varying the timing of seed arrival

摘要: Exotic species are sometimes phenologically distinct from native in the invaded community, allowing them to be active when there may reduced competition for resources. In southern California, annual particularly problematic invaders, and prior work has shown that these germinate earlier growing season, giving a competitive advantage over later-germinating species. This result begs question, if being is advantageous, why have not adapted cues germination? We hypothesized would benefit less germination than exotic (potentially due slower growth following germination), thus negating potential selection early germination. Here we manipulated planting time common species, all possible pairs, evaluate how outcomes were altered by of arrival origin competing contrast our hypotheses, often had lower biomass planted first, potentially disturbance second was planted. contrast, three out four benefited (a priority effect). Unlike arriving early, found no evidence one week later resulted disadvantage, compared simultaneously with competitor. Further, magnitude even direction effects varied depending on identity interacting Together results suggest lack directional prevent adaptation towards times Although this experiment conducted limited suite show role seasonal varies among could restoration efforts fast-growing